Welcoming your Elf on the Shelf is one of the most magical holiday traditions families enjoy year after year. If you’re beginning your Elf on the Shelf prep, a little planning now can make the season even more magical. While your elf does all the flying, hiding, and reporting to Santa, they sometimes need a little behind-the-scenes help from their families. That’s where early elf prep comes in!

A boy and a girl wearing pajamas discover their Elf on the Shelf sitting in a bowl of fruit

If you’re wondering how to prepare for your elf’s arrival or want to make this year’s holiday season as smooth as possible, this August Elf on the Shelf planning checklist is for you. These simple steps will help you get organized and give your elf everything they need to spread cheer—while keeping the magic alive for little ones.

Why Start Elf on the Shelf Prep in August?

Elves are busy at the North Pole this time of year, planning their seasonal visits. By helping them prepare early, families can:

  • Avoid last-minute supply scrambles
  • Make room for new 2025 elf arrivals or accessories
  • Be ready for a calm, magical experience once the season begins

So here it is—your 12-step Elf on the Shelf prep guide for August!

Two Elf on the Shelf elves fly through the clouds

Mark Your Elf’s Return Date on the Calendar

  • Most elves return during Scout Elf Return Week™, November 24-Dec 1. Choose your date, mark it on the calendar, and let Santa and your elf know you’ll be ready!

Preorder New Elf on the Shelf Accessories

  • It’s fun for your family to get in on the planning by shopping for elf accessories! New products are available on Santa’s Store as early as August in most years. There’s no better way to surprise your elf than to have a few gifts waiting for them when they show up!

Check and Organize Last Year’s Elf Supplies and Props

  • Most elves leave behind their props and tools so they can reuse them from year to year. Help your elf take inventory! Look through stored outfits, props, and printables from last year to see what can be reused or needs replacing. Taking the time to do this now, rather than the night before you elf needs to pull off a really big idea, will save lots of stress later—for you and your elf!

The Elf on the Shelf Scout Elf relaxes next to an assortment of supplies, including paper, crayons, glue, scissors and tape

Restock Essential Elf on the Shelf-Sized Supplies

  • Washi tape, glue dots, cotton balls, string, craft paper—the tiny stuff elves love to work with. Add a few essentials to your next errand run.

Welcome a New Scout Elf or Elf Pets Plush

  • Some families welcome a second Scout Elf or an Elf Pets plush. If your child has been asking, your elf will want to pass along the request to Santa! Or bring home one of the new Santaverse characters, like Noorah or the adorable SnoBiggie yeti, Little Grunt. These plush characters immerse your child in the magic and enchantment of the North Pole leading to imaginative play all year long!

Collect Elf on the Shelf Ideas to Inspire Your Scout Elf

Bookmark Helpful Elf Resources

Join The Official Elf on the Shelf Ideas Group

  • In our official parent’s group on Facebook to ask questions, get tips, and be inspired! You can count on exclusive elf ideas featured daily during the weeks before Christmas. With over 240K members, your elf is sure to catch a healthy dose of creativity from other elf loving families.

The Elf on the Shelf sits next to a printable elf ideas planning calendar

Pick an Elf Planning Tool or Calendar

  • Use a calendar, app, or printable planner to coordinate with events, school breaks, or fun family days—things your elf will want to know about!

Share Holiday Travel Plans

  • One of the most special times in an elf’s time with their family is when they get to travel to new places! Travel, though, can be stressful for everyone involved. Rather than leave your elf out of the festivities, help them plan ahead for easy travel ideas and solutions. You’re sure to make some of your best family memories ever!

Plan for Special Events and Family Traditions

  • From school parties to cookie baking day, jot down anything your elf might want to join in on.

Chat With a Neighbor Elf Family

  • If you know other families with Scout Elves, consider sharing ideas or accessories. Elves love when their families team up to make the season even more fun. Help your elves coordinate their planning and half the work is already done!

Start Early for a Stress-Free, Magical Elf on the Shelf Season

Helping your Scout Elf get ready in August means less stress and more smiles when the holidays arrive. With a little prep now, your family will be ready to welcome your elf in style—and give them everything they need to create magical memories all season long.

Stay tuned: Our September Elf Prep Checklist will help you move from ideas to action—with more ways to help your elf succeed!

Whether your Scout Elf is making their first visit or celebrating their 10th year in your home, a little early help from your family can make a big difference. August is the perfect time to set the stage for a joyful, wonder-filled season your children will remember for years to come.

Check out these fantastic and easy elf arrival ideas to get your elf started from Day 1!