The holidays may still feel a sleigh ride away, but for families who welcome a Scout Elf each season, September is the perfect time to lend your elf a helping hand. While your Scout Elf is back at the North Pole making plans for their big return, you can pitch in by gathering supplies, organizing props, and prepping a few behind-the-scenes details that will make their magical job much easier.
With just a little planning now (and maybe one or two fun family craft days), your elf will be fully stocked and ready to delight all season long. Here’s your 10-step checklist to help your Scout Elf prep for the holidays, while keeping the surprise (and the magic!) alive.
Finalize Your Elf’s Return Date & Calendar Plan
Some Scout Elves arrive during Scout Elf Return Week (November 24-December 1) but many families coordinate with their elves for visits just during the month of December. This gives them 24 days of elf antics before their elf returns to the North Pole with Santa on Christmas morning. So now’s the time to choose your date, map out the big moments, and outline your calendar. Check down your dates and send a note to your Scout Elf to let them know what you’re thinking. The month of December is your elf’s month to shine, so be sure they’re prepped for everything you’ve got going on!
Download the Scout Elf Ideas App
Need quick inspiration throughout the season? Download the Scout Elf Ideas App now to get access to photos, step-by-step setups, and fresh ideas straight from the North Pole. Start scrolling through ideas in September and you’ll have plenty of inspiration for your elf by the time they arrive.
(Tip: “Heart” your favorites in the app so your elf can find them later!)
Plan 10–15 Elf Setups in Advance
Even Scout Elves know that December can get a little wild with school concerts, holiday parties, gift wrapping galore! That’s why they love it when families help them prepare a few special surprises in advance for those extra-busy days. A small stash of simple setups, tucked away just in case, means your elf can keep the magic going strong, even when the season gets a little hectic.
For simple ideas to inspire your elf, printables make for quick-and-easy set-ups and giggle-worthy scenes! You can print them out in advance for your elf (avoiding the inevitable late nights and running out of printer ink that your elf might usually encounter in-season), stash them in a folder, and your elf will be primed for success!
Preorder Elf Outfits and Accessories
September is when brand new Scout Elf items hit Santa’s Store, along with companion characters from The Elf on the Shelf Santaverse. The most popular are sure to sell out quickly, so sign up for alerts, take advantage of preorders on Santa’s Store and be among the first to guarantee your elf gear for the year. Outfits, props, and exclusives go fast, so stocking up in September ensures your elf has everything they need to shine all season long.
Plan for Big Pop Culture Moments
Is there a new movie, video game, or show your kids are counting down to? Is this the year of their first big concert, sports obsession, or superhero phase? Let your Scout Elf join in the excitement, because when the magic lines up with what your kids already love, the smiles are even bigger.
Whether it’s a scene inspired by a blockbuster movie release, a viral trend, or a chart-topping pop star, planning pop culture-themed elf setups is one of the best ways to keep your elf relevant, hilarious, and unforgettable. Think mini popcorn buckets for movie marathons, elf-sized controllers for gaming nights, or a red carpet runway moment before the big premiere.
Take Inventory of Holiday Decor
Planning a refresh of holiday decor this year? Leaning into buffalo plaid or festive pastels? Many elf setups make use of mini trees, twinkle lights, snowflakes, or stockings and all Scout Elves love to take on the personalities and decorative themes of their families. Take a moment now to peek at what’s packed away and note what you need to add, what you might want to pull out early… or what your elf might want access to!
Plan for Elf Arrival Extras
Will your elf arrive with a balloon, a breakfast party, or a mini gift? If you’re planning a big entrance, start thinking about the details now. Ordering ahead or prepping decorations can make it feel effortless when the big day arrives.
If you’re imagining a grand entrance, or even just a sweet, simple surprise, now’s the time to think through the details. Ordering decorations or special accessories ahead of time means everything will be ready when your elf makes their big return. You might prep a themed breakfast, gather confetti and streamers, or stash away a tiny treat your elf can surprise your kids with.
Whether you go big or keep it simple, a thoughtful arrival moment sets the tone for a season full of connection, creativity, and cheer.
Review and Update Your Elf Budget
Have you added a few new items to your elf’s plan this year? Whether it’s a new outfit, prop supplies, or extra goodies, now’s the time to review your spending plan and shop intentionally. Gift your Scout Elf with some surprise props and elf clothing this year!
Build a “Rescue Kit” for Elf Emergencies
Kids touch the elf? Or did they accidentally fall from their shelf? No problem. Create a backup kit with tongs, gloves, glitter (or “magic dust”), and a tissue note from Santa explaining any “magic hiccups” along the way. You’ll thank yourself later.
For the ultimate guide to how to handle an elf emergency, read In Case of Elftastrophe, an elf emergency
Schedule October Elf Prep Sessions Now
Make life easier by setting aside one or two craft days each week in October. You can prep props, bag outfits, or even set up entire weeks in advance. This “batching” approach turns elf prep into a fun activity instead of a late-night scramble. And your elf will be so excited to show up when you’ve helped prep for a fantastic season!
So, grab a friend and get two craft nights on the schedule for October. Share supplies, share ideas, share the fun!
Why September Prep Makes Elf Season Magical
The secret to a joyful, low-stress holiday isn’t perfection. It’s planning. By taking time in September to finalize your elf’s calendar, prep props, and print essentials, you’re giving yourself (and your ELF!) the gift of ease, fun, and extra family time in December.
Coming Up Next: October’s Checklist
October is all about batching, crafting, and building scenes, so get your supplies ready! Our next checklist will walk you through key elements of elftastic scenes, props organization, and tips for setting up full weeks of themed elf adventures in advance.
Until then, happy prepping, and always be ready for Christmas magic!