5 Christian Alternatives to Elf on the Shelf

Elf on the Shelf is a fad that we don’t do in this house. Only because we don’t do Santa either. Personally, I’m not saying it’s bad or that you shouldn’t.

It’s just something that we choose not to do.

I know, I know, I’m being sort of a party pooper to some of you. I know who you are, secretly judging me and thinking I’m ruining Christmas because I tell my kids that there’s no such thing as a “Santa”.

The honest fact of the matter is that it’s a lot easier to not lie to my kids and make it to Heaven than to lie to my kids and try to justify it as good.

Again, my personal belief- no judgement here if you choose to do it.

But if you’re like me, and you’re looking for a Christian alternative to Elf on the Shelf, you’ve come to the right place!

If you don’t agree, to each his own. I’m just trying to be a part of His own. Stone me. I promise there’s nothing I haven’t heard these days. But, I’m one of those, we can disagree and still be respectful kind of folks- so.

I do have to say though. The whole Elf on the Shelf thing is pretty cute. And some of you crafty, witty, parents even come up with some fun and funny ways to trick your kiddos into being good each December. Does it work?

But, if you’re like us, the Elf doesn’t necessarily fit into the narrative of Christmas in our home. So you’re probably searching for some Christian alternatives to Elf on the Shelf, and we’ve got you covered!

5 Christian Alternatives to Elf on the Shelf

1. Shepherd on the Search

The Shepherd on the Search, a fun family activity that celebrates the birth of Christ. Take your own stuffed shepherd on a search to find the newborn king! 

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2. Star from Afar

We’ve talked with you about this one before, and we love our Star From Afar a little more each and every year! Walk through the story of Christmas with an interactive storybook, daily game, and wooden nativity set!

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3. Angel on Assignment

Follow the angels through the first Christmas story and explore the ways guardian angels look out for boys and girls today. Angel on Assignment offers a Christian alternative to elf encouraging children to act as angels in disguise for friends who might need help.

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Other Ideas for Celebrating the True Meaning of Christmas:

• I collect nativity sets and my kids now have their own too! Not only is it the perfect thing to remind them of the true meaning of the season, but it’s great way to have a hands-on experience of learning about the birth of Jesus!
  Check out this post on The Best Kids Nativity Sets
• Check out these Advent Activities that Incorporate Learning with Christmas
• 7 Christ-Centered Christmas Shows to Watch on Minno
• FREE Manger Craft for Kids: Paper Plate Lacing Activity

4. What God Wants for Christmas

What God Wants for Christmas Kit includes everything needed for parents or teachers to share the story of Christmas confidently. This interactive nativity scene is perfect for any family, Sunday School, or homeschool room!

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5. Wise Men Journey

The Wise Men Journey is an invitation to guide your family, for twenty-five days, in discovering the hidden treasures in the Word of God.

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6. The Giving Manger

Experience the true meaning of Christmas this year with The Giving Manger — a faith-based interactive family tradition that encourages acts of kindness, focuses on the joy of giving, and honors the real reason for Christmas: Jesus’ birth.

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What are your favorite Christian Alternatives to Elf on the Shelf? If you’re looking for kid-friendly Christmas decorations, we’ve got your back there too! Check out this post about 20 of the best Kids Nativity Sets.