17 easy Mess Free Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Toddlers! Our twins loved these last Christmas when they were 2years old. 1. Elf in the Christmas Tree Pop the elf in the branches with a little “Hello!” sign and their advent calendars. 2. Toilet Roll Snowmen Stack a few toilet rolls, draw simple snowman faces, and sit the elf on top. 3. Elf Abseiling Down the Stairs Use a ribbon or string to make a safe “rope” for the elf to hang from the banister. 4. Elf Eating Cereal Stand the elf next to cereal b