Video Game Adventure

Pin it
Living Room Difficulty ●●○○○ Messiness ●●○○○ Ages 3–10

How it's done

Your elf is settled in the living room for a late night gaming session, holding a game controller while facing the television. They are surrounded by a few stray snack crumbs to make it look like they pulled an all-nighter trying to beat a level. This setup is perfect for kids between 3 and 10 who will get a kick out of seeing their elf interested in their favorite hobby. It takes five minutes to arrange and involves zero cleanup, making it a stress-free option for tired parents. This idea is Inspired by The Soccer Mom Blog.

You'll need

  • video game console
  • controller

affiliate Cart icons link to Amazon search.

Pets in the house?

Should be fine around pets as long as you place it out of reach.

Why this works

Living-room scenes are the most photogenic. The Christmas tree, the couch, the mantel all frame the elf beautifully for the family photo you'll actually take (and maybe post). 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 Canvas Self Portrait Art , 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 The Soccer Mom Blog . 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 →

Also: See all Living Room ideas · Browse the full guide

More Living Room ideas

Other quick ideas

Related guides from Elf Planner

More ideas, templates, and rescue plays from our writing.