Keeping the Magic Alive: What to Do When Kids Start Asking Questions About the Elf
At some point, the magic of having an elf visiting every December might start to face some tricky questions from curious kids. Whether they’ve heard something at school, seen something online, or are just becoming more observant, questions about their elf’s antics are bound to arise. So, what should you do when your kids start to wonder how their elf manages all the mischief, or whether their elf is “real”? Don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to keep the magic alive!
1. Be Prepared for the Big Questions
Kids can be great detectives (which is why we ship in plain brown or white boxes) so it’s not unusual for them to start asking questions. Whether they wonder how the elf moves around, why the elf didn’t pull off a big prank one night, or how the elf came to life, it’s helpful to have a playful, creative answer ready. You can explain that elves have magical powers, but sometimes they get tired or need a break, just like everyone else.
You can also share how the elf uses special North Pole magic that humans can’t see. This magic helps them travel back and forth to Santa every night to give reports, which is why they can’t always be caught in the act!
2. Turn Questions into Curiosity
When kids ask questions, it’s often a sign that they’re ready for a new level of engagement with the elf tradition. Encourage their curiosity by helping them get more involved with the elf’s adventures. Ask them to write letters to the elf – or become pen pals with their elf and send letters back and forth. Perhaps create little gifts that their elf can take back to the North Pole.
Consider adding an extra layer of interactivity with your Elf Kits or Elf Packs. For example we have the Santa Letter. Use the Santa Letter to have your kids address the questions they may be asking. As we keep a record of every letter back and forth, we can help you address any matter your kids want to talk to Santa about, not just elves. If you can help your kids get their thoughts down on paper, chances are they will think about them less.
3. Introduce the ‘North Pole Communication Network’
If your child is starting to wonder about the logistics of elf magic, introduce the concept of the North Pole Communication Network (NPCN). This is an imaginative way to explain how Santa and the elves are always in touch, using advanced magical technology! The NPCN is what allows the elves to communicate with Santa and helps coordinate all the elf activities. Your kids can even help the elf by making sure they’re on their best behavior to keep the network running smoothly.
4. Create New Elf Adventures Together
If you notice that your child’s excitement is fading, it might be time to level up the elf’s activities. Get them involved by talking about what your elf might do next. For example, “Wouldn’t it be funny if (Elf Name) decided to squirt Ketchup (Tomato Sauce) in the kitchen” and have a pre-emptive conversation around how that would happen – then a day or 2 later, suddenly your elf has done exactly that.
Perhaps they’d love to see the elf make pancakes, build a Lego fort, or get tangled in Christmas lights. This is a great opportunity to use our Booster Packs, which provide extra props and ideas to keep the elf’s mischief going strong. The more your child feels a part of the elf’s story, the more the magic stays alive.
Remember, our Elf Kits are designed to evolve with your child’s growing curiosity. Each kit is filled with new daily mischief props and interactive activities that are designed to captivate their imagination—even as they grow older and start asking more detailed questions. We have many families who’s older teens have outgrown their elf, but stay involved having fun with their siblings. We always make sure that our personalized elf packs include the older siblings.
5. The Power of Imagination and Belief
At the heart of it, the elf tradition is about fostering creativity, imagination, and a sense of wonder. When kids start asking tricky questions, it’s an opportunity to guide them toward a deeper appreciation for the fun and joy the elf brings. Instead of seeing their questions as the end of the magic, encourage them to embrace the storytelling aspect of the elf.
After all, the magic doesn’t have to disappear—it can simply evolve. Let your child’s growing understanding inspire new ways to keep the tradition alive, while still preserving the playful spirit of the elf. Whether it’s by enhancing their elf’s storyline or letting them take part in planning the elf’s next move, you’re giving them the gift of creativity and fun memories.
We will be adding more and more stories to the Elf Lore section of our Blog which will help fuel your imagination and help keep your elf magic alive.
6. When It’s Time for a New Tradition
For older children who might be moving away from believing in elf magic, consider shifting the tradition to one where they become the elf’s helper. This transition can keep the magic alive in a new way, as they help plan pranks or even guide younger siblings in enjoying the elf’s visits. This not only keeps them engaged but also gives them a sense of responsibility and creativity in keeping the tradition going.
When that time passes as well, and the youngest is ready to move on – keep the magic alive and have us help you rehome your elf. If their assignment with your family is over, then Santa can re-assign them to a new family and your children can relish in the fact that someone else’s home will be at the mercy of your mischievous elf.
Comments (0)