Googly Face Enhancement
How it's done
For this quick morning setup, simply peel and stick a few googly eyes onto your elf’s face to give them a wide-eyed, comical expression. Kids will wake up to find their scout looking unusually alert and a bit ridiculous as they sit on the shelf or table. You can use adhesive googly eyes from a craft store or even just draw simple circles on paper if you do not have extra supplies handy. This takes less than five minutes and leaves zero mess to clean up later. The goofy look is a hit with toddlers and grade schoolers alike, and this setup was Inspired by Madison Mom.
Should be fine around pets as long as you place it out of reach.
Why this works
This kind of scene isn't tied to one room, it works wherever the elf needs a new home tonight. Difficulty 2 means it uses items you already own and takes about five minutes, quick but visibly intentional.
Variations
- Bigger-kid twist: For an older crowd that sees through simple scenes, step up to Military Tape Wall Capture , same room, cleverer setup.
If it doesn't go to plan
If the elf ends up too well-hidden and the kids can't find it, nudge them with a vague hint ("Looks like our elf went somewhere cozy"), the discovery is the point.
Inspired by Madison Mom . Visit the original post for more photos and the full backstory.
Need an idea for tomorrow?
Tell us about your house and kids, we'll pick 5 more ideas personalized for you.
Try the generator →More Other ideas
Band-Aid Accident Victim
Cover elf with band-aids with "I need a hug!" note.
Be Good Pencil Reminder
Elf with pencil and small "Be Good!" card.
Bubble Gum Bubble Blowing
Elf posed with bubble gum bubble extended from mouth.
Other quick ideas
Abacus Climbing Adventure
Elf positioned climbing on toy abacus beads as climbing structure.
Acting Silly in Toilet Paper Rolls
Stick the elf's arms and legs through empty toilet paper tubes for a robot look. Pose him on the bathroom counter.
Adoption Certificate
Official elf adoption certificate displayed near elf on arrival.
Related guides from Elf Planner
More ideas, templates, and rescue plays from our writing.