My girls favorite time of the year is definitely Christmas. They love all things Santa, reindeer, nutcrackers, and, of course, elves! Their love of elves definitely came from their own Elf, Criddle. Although she doesn’t get into too much mischief, she has definitely spread holiday cheer for the 10 years we’ve had her!

Even though my girls aren’t preschoolers anymore, they love to make Christmas crafts and they’ve made a few of these elf crafts themselves over the years. So, to share the elf love, I’m sharing with you and your little ones so you can get into the holiday spirit too!

Throughout the list of these elf crafts for preschoolers to make, you’ll find lots of different craft variations. Some are paper elf crafts while others use craft supplies pipe cleaners and pom poms.

There are even Elf coloring pages to print, which might come in handy to have in a preschool classroom for an impromptu crafting session!

There’s just something about the holiday season that makes crafting even more fun. So, be sure to check out the list below for the best elf crafts to make with preschoolers this Christmas!

Elf Crafts with Paper and Printables

These adorable paper bag elf puppets are inspired by the Elf on the Shelf and is relatively easy to make with little amount of supplies needed – construction paper, paper bags, and creativity!

Kids of all ages will loves this fun idea – turning themselves into Buddy the Elf! This craft features the elf from everyone’s favorite movie and comes with a free printable template to cut out and piece together. Put a picture for the face and kids become an elf themselves!

One of the best ideas to get kids involved in Christmas crafts is to have plenty of options and printing these adorable elf coloring pages is a great way for kids of all ages, even older kids, to get into the holiday spirit with little craft supplies needed.

This paper elf craft is made of construction paper that bends and a child’s photo to make themselves an elf!

Speaking of older kids, they’ll love making these Elf Bookmarks! They’re made to fit onto the corner of books and are made from construction paper.

This Christmas craft is for kids to make their own elf hats! You’ll find a free printable template to guide this craft along.

Here’s another Christmas craft that is print and go. First, print the jigsaw puzzle. Then, color the elf scene and cut out the pieces to put it together again!

These Christmas elves are eager to hold your spot in your favorite Christmas book. They are easy to make with the free template and are sure to bring smiles when they are finished!

This is SUCH a fun idea for kids of all ages – this 11 page holiday activity unit will help students work on storytelling, vocabulary, and even includes fun elf crafts too!

Elf Crafts using Paints

I am dying at how CUTE these adorable fingerprint elves are! So easy for kids to make and they’ll have fun making each Christmas elf look unique!

Another fun craft idea for little ones – these handprint elves are simple to make but so adorable! Just a little craft paint, googly eyes, and a pom pom for a hat!

Paper plate elves are too adorable with their little round faces and this one looks just like the Elf on the Shelf!

We all know elves are Santa’s little helpers, but the kiddos can be someone’s little helper too! These are adorable and made with acrylic paint, canning lids, and fingerprints!

These easy to make elf hats are made from popsicle sticks and pom poms and are perfect for little hands to make for the Christmas season.

These easy finger puppets feature all kinds of Christmas creatures including elves, snowmen, reindeer and more! They are made with pipe cleaners which is a totally unique way to make them and be sure they fit on anyone’s finger.

If you are a teacher and you’re looking for even more elf fun, be sure to check out my 50 Easy Elf Ideas for a Preschool Classroom!

This Christmas Elf craft is made with popsicle sticks and even comes with a little elf template to get you started.

If you have a class elf or if your kids have elves at home, these adorable doors are SO cute to get. They come in a pack of 25 and could be painted or colored with markers. Buy them on Amazon.

Upcycled Elf Crafts to Make

Made with a few different types of pasta, how much cuter can an elf get? This Christmas elf craft might prove just a little difficult to put together for young children, unless you use a hot glue gun, but it could inspire other elf crafts too!

These festive elves are made from toilet paper rolls and look like they are reading to go Christmas caroling to me!

I’m all about reusing items and this elf craft is made with egg cartons!

While it’s not technically en elf, it is an elf door craft! Look how cute this DIY craft is, made with craft sticks.

These clothespin elves might be a little too hard for smaller kids, without help, but I think they are worth the work! They look like decor that you would buy at a store.

Another elf craft made with craft sticks, but I thought this take on the colors and using pipe cleaners was unique.

Here’s a cute elf mask craft made out of a paper plate.

What better way to get kids excited about spelling than with an elf craft with their own name!? Get the ideas here: https://mrsplemonskindergarten.com/2017/12/preschool-christmas-week-1.html

I have a ton of awesome elf crafts in this list, but if you need something quick with all of the supplies already, you might want to look into these adorable elf craft kits on Amazon.

These cute little Christmas crafts are made with construction paper, glue stick, and craft sticks. You can make them elves, reindeer, or even Santa with a fun cotton ball beard! Add a small ribbon to each and turn them into Christmas tree ornaments for kids to take home.

Another adorable toilet paper roll elf to make – this one is great because even young kids can put it together.

Have you ever made pinecone elves? Another example of using resources that you don’t have to buy. These cute little elves will so much fun to display.

Since candy canes are one of the elves major food groups it only makes sense that you could make elves out of candy canes! With a little construction paper and candy cane legs, kids can make their own elf to enjoy!

I mean – these Jumping Elf Puppets are so much fun! They actually jump if you pull the string!

Here’s another take on little elves made from cardboard tubes. They are easy to make, but they’re also a great way to teach kids about reusing items to help the environment!

This popsicle stick elf is made with just one craft stick and a cotton ball for a beard! It can be put together with glue and makes children use fine motor skills when assembling.

How festive do these little elves look sitting on a shelf? Made with a little more craft supplies than you’ll usually find in a preschool classroom, they are an intricate elf craft to make, but will definitely spread Christmas cheer! Tutorial

This Popsicle Stick elf is one of those easy Christmas crafts that is lots of fun for kids to put together. They can make it their own by changing up the face, hat, and even elf ears!

Who doesn’t want their own elf that will dance?! These cute elves have legs that dangle and will sway to look like they are dancing!

I cannot get over how FUN this little ornament is – your kids could put the items inside the snow globe and then have fun moving it all around to find all the items again! This makes such a special Christmas keepsake for kids. Here’s the tutorial.

Here’s another take on a paper plate elf, but this time we’re adding a stick to make it into elf puppets! You could even add jingle bells to the elf hat to give it even more of the magic of Christmas!

What kid doesn’t love slime? This Christmas slime is cleverly titled Elf Snot with a free printable and recipe to make your own slime. It’s a little gross, but you know kids will love it!

So Easy Being Green

This updated 2025 guide includes everything from quick setups you can do in under a minute to creative and funny Elf pranks your kids will love. Whether you’re looking for mess-free Elf ideas, simple arrival or goodbye setups, or just need something easy after a long day, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here.

Scroll through for photo examples, clever props, and Elf on the Shelf setups for toddlers, older kids, and even the whole family. With these ideas, your elf will bring Christmas magic into your home every single day — without the stress.

This post may contain affiliate links. By purchasing through these links, I may make a commission. Thank you for your support.

Now that we’re on our 12th year of having our Elf, I feel like we’ve got quite a bit of experience. So, I’m sharing some of my favorite QUICK and easy Elf on the Shelf ideas with you today. In fact, if you add them all up, there’s over 100 – you don’t need that many but you’re sure to find some favorites in this list!

These are ELF on the Shelf IDEAS FOR EASY HIDING.

We aren’t worried about all the elf antics over here. These ideas are so easy you’ll be kicking yourself about not already thinking about them. Or maybe you already did – that’s why I’ve got 100 for you!

My number 1 tip is don’t make it hard on yourself. Those funny elf ideas might seem hilarious, but those antics inspire some major burnout. Plus, I do NOT want to be cleaning up anymore toothpaste than I already do.

QUICK Elf Ideas and places to put your elf that take less than 1 minute to set up.

Once you start moving your elf, you’ll start noticing fun hiding places more easily around your own home, but these are good ones to help you get started or when you’re stuck!

But if you want more elaborate setups, I suggest buying Elf on the Shelf Kits – here’s a link to my favorite Christmas Elf kit that includes EVERYTHING you’ll need for the Elf season.

100 QUICK Elf Ideas with Pictures

1

This elf is wearing a sweater because she’s a little cold. But the refrigerator is always a good hiding place for a scout elf from the North Pole.

2

Out the window looking inside.

3

An elf wearing toast is always a fun idea – easy too! Source

4

With an Official Elf Report – whether the elf caught a child being Naughty or Nice, this report will definitely get some attention [and it’s easy and FREE to print!]

5

Elves love to play and pose with LEGO.

6

This elf brought the kids a pack of skittles and a Rainbow Skittles Magic Printable that explains the Rainbow Magic Trick they can do!

7

Making snowflakes – this was made even funnier because the elf cut up old electric bills.

8

Definitely one of my best lazy mom elf on the shelf ideas – In the Egg Tray in the refrigerator.

9

My daughter has a Harry Potter shelf full of potions so the elf decided to show up in her cauldron!

Funny Elf Antics for Kids

10

This one is MUCH EASIER than you think because it comes in the 2025 Your Best Elf Kit that we’re using this year. If your family loves football, this is perfect! Buy the Kit.

11

It’s like Where’s Waldo but Elf edition in the middle of all these nutcrackers!

12

If you have a toy or machine that can make it look like the elf is stuck – that’s always fun. This one is a candy vending machine dispenser.

13

Here’s one of my VERY easy elf on the shelf setups: Posing with a toothbrush.

14

In a toilet paper roll. You could even take this a step further and throw the toilet paper down the stairs and let it unroll with the elf inside.

15

Elf Sleepover with Friends with socks as sleeping bags. Source

16

“Mom, don’t do any laundry today! You might touch the elf”. Oh my daughter, you are just soooo right! So help yourself out and put your Elf on the laundry, vacuum… wherever you don’t want to work that day!

18

Going on a trip? Have your elf show up on a suitcase a day or 2 before you leave.

19

Ready for a shower… in a shower cap!

20

Pinned to a sewing machine.

Mess-Free Elf Setups

21

Lifting weights – so easy! Just a toothpick and a couple of marshmallows. Source

22

Posing with an Elf Pet. Or any Christmas decor!

23

POKEMON! Who knew elves love Pikachu?!

24

Is Mom cooking again? Dad? The elf is ready for any baking mishaps by the fire extinguisher.

25

You can even let your elf bring a fun game – print this FREE Christmas Bingo game that I created for some Christmas game fun!

26

Our elf always misses the girls if we’re traveling or they spend the night with a friend during the Holidays. So tucking her in their bed is the perfect spot!

27

Elves working out is a favorite – it also means you don’t have to walk on the treadmill on the day he hides here!

28

This DJ Elf is hard at work spinning tunes. I got these adorable sets in the Dollar Spot at Target. You can also find a TON of printable Elf accessories here.

29

I cannot handle the cuteness of this easy idea. Take a pic of the elf with your sleeping kiddo then make it their background picture. This would be a great Elf on the Shelf Teen ideas too! Source

30

In a dollhouse. My daughter decorated her dollhouse for Christmas so naturally the elf showed up!

31

This one is a little messy, but so easy and quick to set up. This elf is making a snow angel in flour!

32

If your little one is into coloring, your Elf can bring these Elf coloring pages.

33

Elves LOVE Post-It Notes. You can cover up a computer screen, tv… anything really!

34

Wrapped in a tortilla and ready for Taco Tuesday – this is a quick Elf on the Shelf idea for sure. Source

35

On STRIKE! This Elf is refusing to move until something changes – get the Bad Behavior Elf on Strike Printable.

36

Posing with other dolls doing the YMCA!

37

Twister poses are always fun and this one is easy because I’ve got a FREE printable Twister board for you to use.

38

This one looks a little harder than it really is. But if you have a Ninja Turtles fan, you’ve got to make these. All you need are apples, balloons and googly eyes!

Quick Elf on the Shelf Ideas (Under 1 Minute)

39

In the craft supplies box.

40

It might take the full 5 minutes to get this one setup, but with minimal supplies. All you would need are marshmallows, a candle and a long stick or bamboo skewer.

41

This is a fun idea if you have a pack of candy canes laying around. Print this free Candy Cane Hunt Printable and hide the candy canes!

42

If you have a kid that likes band-aids, they’ll love these elf shenanigans!

43

Everyone knows there are 4 food groups according to elves… and syrup is an important one! Source

44

On top of the world!

45

In Christmas Stockings

46

Taking the dogs for a walk. You’ll need a doll stand or something to help the elf look like it’s walking, toy dog figurines, and pipe cleaners but this one looks so fun! Source

47

In the coffee container.

48

Elves can bring this fun Secret Message from Santa with a Christmas Puzzle Decoder.

49

Elf caught in tape.

50

A game of Elf Tic Tac Toe. Source

51

Elf Zipline – this one comes together pretty fast and all you need is string or dental floss and a candy cane. Source

52

In the silverware drawer.

53

In the shower.

54

Toilet paper the Christmas Tree! Source

55

Reading a book.

56

Put a Rudolph nose on all the pictures. If you have red pom-poms, this is an easy one! Source

57

In shoes.

58

Make a “sponge cake”! All you need is a sponge and some sprinkles! Source

59

In a houseplant.

60

Waiting for a movie night! Source

61

In a coffee mug – and yes, I have an Elf mug!

62

Melted Snowman – All you need for this one is water, sticks, a carrot, and a few blueberries for eyes and buttons! Source

63

With a Nerf gun!

64

With a note written in lipstick on a mirror. Source

65

In a basketball hoop!

66

With tissues and cough drops. This could be a good one if your Elf needs a sick day. Source

67

Writing or typing Santa a letter.

68

Reading the fine print. I love the magnifying glass with a receipt.

69

Washing machine roller coaster – this one cracks me up! Source

70

In the Christmas tree!

71

Making Q-Tip snowflakes. Source

72

Looking in the mirror.

73

In the makeup drawer.

74

Sitting in the kitchen with cookie ingredients. This is a fun and easy one depending on what you might want to make!

75

With cat food – the note is what makes this one so fun! Source – Instagram

76

In the Nativity

77

Taking a bubble bath – in a bowlful of marshmallows!

78

Hanging on the refrigerator with an Elf Grocery List! Source

79

Leaving a present with the toilet paper. Source – Instagram

80

In the cabinet – inside cups or bowls.

81

Drawing faces on eggs! Source

82

Hanging out of the ice maker in the refrigerator.

83

Playing piano

84

Drawing faces on pictures. This one is easy and fun because you just use a dry erase marker that will wipe right off. Source

85

I am not sure if I love this one or hate it – but it sure is funny! Would your kid be brave enough to try? Source – instagram

86

Hanging out in a Kitchenaid mixer.

87

Playing card games.

88

Hanging upside down from a lamp.

89

A little bit complicated, but still pretty fast. You just need a can of shaving cream and a razor for this set up. Source

90

Another bit of a complicated set up, but all you need is Cheerios to make mini donuts! Source

91

How about another egg set up, but this time it’s a joke! Source

92

Set up an Elf Ball Pit with craft pom poms! Source – instagram

93

Elf Stilts – This looks so hilarious and all you need are 2 rolls of wrapping paper and some boots! Source

94

Looking for coins! This elf is doing a deep dive in the couch cushions. Source – instagram

95

All wrapped up – wrapping presents is a hard job for elves. Source

96

If you have a Roomba or robot vacuum, this is a fun one – the elves are taking a ride. Source

97

Nutella mustache – you could do this with anything, really. Source

98

This one is sure to get kids’ attention! Source

99

Forget choo choo trains, this is a shoe shoe train! Source

100

If you have a copier, this is such a fun idea to post around the house!

These easy Elf ideas will make it easy enough for any parent to succeed with an elf at Christmas!

While some parent totally get into elaborate scenes for their Elf, I do NOT on a regular basis. I like to keep things simple and fast.

And most of all I love to see the look and excitement on my girls’ faces as they scour the house looking for their little festive friend each morning in December!

This post was originally published in November 2018 and was last updated September 2025.

Are you looking for even more Elf Ideas? Check out my other Elf Posts:

• Elf Twister Printable
• Elf Skittles Magic Rainbow Printable
• Bad Behavior Elf on Strike Printable
• Official Elf Report Printable
• 20 Elf Ideas with Balloons
• Elf Ideas for Workplace
• 100+ FREE Elf Printables to Print TODAY!
• 35 Elf Crafts for Preschoolers to Make
• 30 Elf Coloring Pages to Print
• Elf Secret Message Puzzle
• 50 EASY Elf Ideas for a Preschool Classroom
• 10 Tips to Get Ready for the Elf Arrival
• Elf Candy Cane Hunt
• The BEST Elf on the Shelf Kits for 2025

So Easy Being Green

**The Elf Kits that I share in this post are not official Elf on the Shelf merchandise, but intended to be used with your own elf.**

We’ve been an Elf family for over 12 years now and it’s one of my family’s favorite Christmas traditions by far. I think the key to really loving your elf and the tradition of he/she moving every day is to keep things simple.

I would even go so far as to say that we have a lazy elf, which is why I love quick and easy Elf ideas that take less than 5 minutes, actually usually only about 1 minute, to completely set up.

This post may contain affiliate links. By purchasing through these links, I may make a commission. Thank you for your support.

But if you’re looking for an Elf Kit, you probably want a few more elaborate ideas for your elf and you’re in luck because I’m sharing the best kits for 2025 for all budgets. In fact, I even have some great DIY options if you’re into that too!

Here’s what you’ll need to get ready for your Elf on the Shelf Kit:

• Elf – if you don’t have one yet, I’ve found Amazon usually has the best price and it comes with the storybook that explains the tradition and rules.
• A letter from the elf introducing themselves to the family. I have a whole blog post on Elf Arrival ideas and a welcome letter is always a fun way to introduce elf antics and an Elf Kit.
• A small storage box or bag to keep the elf and the Elf Kit contents in when not in use, if you pick an Elf Kit that doesn’t come with one.
• A calendar or planner to help plan out the elf’s daily activities and movements. There are tons of free Elf planning calendars and planners online. I happen to love this one.

Once you have those things ready to go, you’ll need to pick your favorite Elf on the Shelf Kit. Let’s take a look at my top favorites and you’ll find even more ideas at the bottom of this post.

The Top – BEST Elf on the Shelf Kit

The Best Elf Kit from Your Best Elf is by far the coolest and most amazing Elf Kit that I’ve found. Their slogan is Making Merry Memories and this kit will do just that – plus a lot of their items can be kept for years to come.

While this kit is the most expensive on the list, at a cost of just under $110, there is a reason… and her kits usually sell out because they come with so much! This is a great choice for parents who just don’t have time to put together scenes on their own or just want this Elf thing to go a lot easier!

• 24 Days with 4 Bonus Days
• Seasonal Fun: Each day features a uniquely designed, witty message board, giving your children something new and exciting to look forward to as they count down the days until Christmas.
• Daily Surprises: The Elf Kit is packed with surprises that will keep your little ones entertained throughout the Christmas season. From a football set and a chess game to a keepsake pillowcase and ornaments, there’s something for everyone.  It also includes extra items for each child for some activities and games (if you indicate you have more than 1 child without having to buy separate boxes).
• Instructions & Extra Content: The kit contains visuals and instructions as well as a QR code to an online guide with additional at-home product that can be incorporated to enhance the fun!
• Easy Setup: Each day’s scene is individually packaged to make it easy to set up during the busiest time of the year.

So if you’re interested in an elf kit that has everything you need for the entire elf season, I’d definitely check this one out.

3 of the Best Elf Kits on Etsy

2025 is the year of the Elf on the Shelf Kits on Etsy because there are SO many to choose from it’s almost overwhelming. I looked through and found a few standouts that might be worth checking out if the Your Best Elf Kit is already sold out.

This Elf Kit from Etsy is a best seller and contains all new activities and props for 2025. While it boasts a $40 price tag, that’s actually only for 12 days of activities. It can be as high as $100 depending on choices.

I do love that the props are all individually packaged so it’s easy to know what goes with which day. There are some super cute setups, but for the quality, I rank it below the Your Best Elf Kit above.

Another from Etsy, this Elf Kit actually comes with 28 nightly tales this year for 2025, which could be a fun addition to an elf season. This Elf Kit sells for just under $100 on Etsy.

Just keep in mind that these are all just printable items and you won’t get any props shipped to you.

Lastly, you might be surprised to learn that you can also find Elf Kits on Amazon. I have not ordered these so I can’t speak to the quality, but it’s an option if you’re an Amazon Prime member.

All of these elf kits are great options, but if you like to DIY or are just looking to save a little money and use items from around your house, you can make your own!

DIY Elf on the Shelf Kit Ideas

First, you will want to decide just how extensive you want your elf setups to be. You can simply add in a few props or go all out with ultimate Christmas scenes and elf antics.

Believe me, you can get caught up in it – I never thought I would be throwing flour around to look like snow, but I did it last year!

I compiled a huge list of Elf printable props and accessories in this post that make it so easy [and FREE] for you to make your own Elf Kit. One advantage to putting everything together in a kit is being able to reuse the ideas over each year.

I would highly suggest checking out some of those printable to add to your own DIY Elf Kit. But in addition, here are some great items to add to the kit too:

• A set of elf-sized clothes and accessories (such as hats, scarves, and mittens) – Did you know that Dollar Tree Barbie clothes fit the scout elf perfectly?!
• A small bag of elf-sized props (such as tiny presents or mini candy canes). Small candies and even cereal make fantastic props. [Cheerios = tiny donuts!]
• A notepad and pen for the elf to write notes to the family. This is a simple idea, but a great one to have in your kit.
• Miniature presents and gift boxes make perfect props!
• Miniature Christmas decorations (such as a tiny tree or wreath) – I also love Christmas lights popsed with or around an elf.
• A miniature book or magazine for the elf to read – here’s a free one to print!
• Tiny sports equipment (such as a small basketball or football or even tennis racket – think Barbie accessories)
• Hot Wheels toy car or vehicle for the elf to ride in – they are the perfect size for props!

Once your creative juices start flowing, you’ll be coming up with fantastic elf scenes in no time. Honestly, just looking around your house will probably give you tons of props, but if you’re still looking for places to buy some, you might want to check out the Elf on the Shelf website, craft stores like Michaels and Hobby Lobby, and dollar stores like my favorite Dollar Tree.

Just keep in mind – anything miniature is always adorable!

Whether you decide to DIY an Elf Kit or buy one like the Best Elf Kit from Your Best Elf, you’ll definitely be on top of your game and ready for all the Elf Shenanigans that come during the month of December!

So Easy Being Green

Having an Elf in the workplace can bring a lot of joy and excitement to employees during the holiday season. Not only does it add a fun and festive element to the office, but it can also help to boost morale and promote teamwork among coworkers.

The Elf on the Shelf tradition involves hiding a small elf doll each day. While most scout elves are hanging out in houses and flying back to the North Pole each night to report to Santa, we’re talking about elves that like to hang out in the office.

To bring Elf ideas in the workplace, you’ll simply have an elf or two around the office each day. The elf can “hide” in mystery places or be set up with fun scenes. While I‘m pretty lazy when it comes to our own Elf, I did come up with some super fun scene ideas that you could easily set up in the office.

This post may contain affiliate links. By purchasing through these links, I may make a commission. Thank you for your support.

The fun comes when you encourage your employees, or co-workers, to find the elf each day. This can lead to friendly competition and collaboration, as coworkers work together to locate the elf each day or even take turns hiding the elf or setting up the scene.

While the Elf tradition may have originated as a children’s activity, it has become increasingly popular among adults in recent years. Many workplaces have adopted the tradition as a way to bring some lighthearted fun and holiday spirit to the office.

While most of my Elf on the Shelf ideas for the workplace evolved around a true office type setting, many of them can be changed or adapted if you work in special offices like:

• Doctor’s Office
• Dentist’s Office
• School

You can also find very specific props and even outfits to go with special type of work environments too. I share some of those below.

Are you ready for over 50 Elf on the Shelf Ideas to use in the workplace? Be sure to pin them for later!

If you have a Keurig or coffeemaker in your office kitchen, set up your elf with his/her own K-cups!

I often find that the note is the best part of the scene – everyone knows how the Christmas tree lights are always in a knot. This one takes such little effort – but is super cute and always fits in with my office and all of the tangled cords.

Elf on the Shelf Office Pranks

It’s a classic Elf style prank – hiding in the copier for printed elf selfies.

I love this funny elf prank – put a small post-it on the bottom of a coworker’s mouse so it won’t work!

Speaking of Post-Its, use a few to totally cover up a computer screen.

If you have a candy jar in the office, it’s the perfect place for an elf. Candy is definitely one of their main food groups.

This is a fun and easy setup – print a fake resume for the elf to fill out. If you want to include a few jokes about coworkers, go ahead.

This elf switched out all pens and pencils in the office with color pencils. This works even better with crayons.

Remember that selfie the elf made with the copier? File it under important documents. So many of these ideas use very little “props” and some you can use again in different ways later in the month of December.

Now, let’s get to a few funny ideas for your Elf in the office. I think these are super fun IF your coworkers and employees will get the joke. We don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings because having an Elf is all about fun and happiness.

I can’t resist a good bathroom joke and this letter makes all the difference with this prop.

Another fun one if you call out someone who might fall asleep at their desk from time to time.

You can always let the elf practice coloring or doodling on boring office worksheets.

Fun prop IF you have glitter around your office kitchen like I do.

Wires aren’t the only thing elves can get wrapped up in – this little guy is just stuck with some Scotch tape.

This might be my favorite. Of course, I wouldn’t REALLY white-out a true certificate. Print a fake one out and have your Elf be the employee of the month for December!

Buddy the Elf says it’s 5:00 – that’s because he changed the time himself so he could get to that tropical drink early.

Want more Elf ideas for the workplace? Sure you do – because you’re going to need at least 1 a day for December. Check out some more ideas from me and other bloggers below:

This elf doesn’t seem to be interested in doing any work – . Source

Easy setup – put coworkers names on a Nice List or Naughty List. If you don’t have a dry erase board, simply have the elf type out a list on someone’s computer.

This FREE Elf on the shelf Twister printable is an easy setup and will bring back some memories of a nostalgic game for employees at the office.

Not required, but these festive Christmas sweaters from Amazon could be used for an office Ugly Christmas Sweater prop or party.

I can’t even with this one, but it does happen to be my favorite one… just make sure it goes along with the humor style of your boss! Source.

I’m not sure why glasses on an elf makes them look like they fit in at the office more, but they do! This is a free printable for your own elf glasses. Source.

See? An elf in the office needs to wear glasses. And a tie. I seriously love this little idea staged at a big conference table. Source.

This elf got into the office First Aid Kit. Source.

If you work in a doctor’s office or hospital, this set from Etsy is perfect. Not only will employees enjoy seeing the elf visit, but patients will too! Source.

These mini electronics are actually pretty inexpensive on Amazon and I could see them being used in so many ways with a scout elf in the office.

We can’t have a list of fun ideas for an elf without one involving a toilet paper roll! Let the office elf roll someone’s desk or chair. Source.

Elves are all about having PUN [punny fun], right? Love this little PayDay setup in the office. Tell me who wouldn’t smile at seeing that?! Source.

Another idea with a computer mouse – this setup is an elf using it to snow tube. Source

I am OBSESSED with this idea, but also realize that it would take quite awhile to get all of these snowflakes cut out. If you have the time, do it! Source

A list of over 100 quick Elf on the Shelf ideas that literally take 5 minutes. Some of these will work in an office setting too!

I love it – this dentist office gets it. The magical elf is a fun way to get kids excited and happy at the dentist office and in turn, will make everyone working there smile more too! Source

What a great way to get kids excited to be at the dentist – if their helper is an elf. This cute outfit is inexpensive and handmade, available on Etsy.

It’s that time of year when elves might get a little headache – or might get a lot if they’re working in the office with you everyday. Source

No one likes to do it, but it has to be done. So this time let the little elf show up in a new spot – the toner drawer! Source

I’m not sure this one is entirely office friendly, but if you have more than 1 sink in the bathroom, it could be so fun. You can buy these little tiny ducks on Amazon for so cheap. Source

Another take on the Nice List and Naughty List – an elf sitting at a computer is just a funny sight. Source

There are over 20 ideas in this post to use balloons as props with elves. Some of these would be so great in the office – like did you know you can actually put an elf in a balloon?!

Sleeping on the job? Leaving the printer out of paper? What would your office mates bad behavior be? Source

It’s a simple hiding place, but a classic one since this little elf is from the cold North Pole – in the office refrigerator. Source

This elf REALLY had fun with the copier! Source

I love for our elf to do some nice things sometimes and bringing the office a cocoa party would be just that. It’s an expensive way to celebrate the season. Source

This one may take bringing a few extra members into the office, but everyone can appreciate a YMCA dance party in the morning in December. Source

If you’re a DIYer and work in an office that needs to wear masks, this is a good prop to use with your office elf. Source

It’s free and it’s easy to print – let Spiderman visit the office one day! Source

I love this Good Deed Challenge and it could really be incorporated into an office setting amongst coworkers to remember the goodness of the season. Source

Elves don’t always have to be mischevious, sometimes they can bring presents too! This is a fun way to spread Christmas cheer through the elf too. Source

If you’re looking for a way to add some holiday cheer to your office this season, consider bringing in an Elf and see how it can benefit your team!

So Easy Being Green

These versatile bowls are easy to make and can be customized to fit any taste preference. Whether you’re looking for a savory breakfast or a light lunch, cottage cheese bowls are a great option.

Would you believe that I just discovered I like cottage cheese this year… as a 40 year old!?

My husband has been trying to convince me to try it for years. Even before that, my best friend always raved about eating cottage cheese and tomatoes when we were younger. The lumps, the color, the texture… I just couldn’t get out of my head that cottage cheese looked like expired yogurt.

After not listening to my best friend and husband for decades, I let social media convince me to try it. Honestly, I was intrigued by the creative and colorful cottage cheese bowls that I saw on Instagram and TikTok.

It was the Mustard Lady that finally got me. That pretty, colorful plate and the way she seemed to really love a chicken apple sausage dipped in mustard and cottage cheese – well, it just pushed me over the edge on the cottage cheese train. And now I feel like I’m a walking, talking member of the cottage cheese loving community.

I was pleasantly surprised by the creamy texture and mild flavor of the cottage cheese. My husband loves it with fruit, but I have definitely determined that I like more savory cottage cheese bowls and mix-ins.

Since falling in love with cottage cheese a few months ago, I have been experimenting with different toppings and flavor combinations, and I have incorporated cottage cheese bowls into my diet weekly, if not daily, as a healthy and satisfying snack option! Actually, I have them so often, I found myself googling…

Is it OK to eat cottage cheese every day?

It is ok to eat cottage cheese every day, thankfully. Cottage cheese is such a great source of protein and calcium and perfect for daily consumption, but it is important to pick a quality cottage cheese that doesn’t have a lot of additives, especially hidden sugars.

Nutritional Benefits of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese bowls are a great choice for those looking to increase their protein intake. One cup of cottage cheese contains approximately 28 grams of protein, which is more than half of the recommended daily intake for an adult.

In fact, I’m now seeing lots of research that suggests women my age should be eating even more protein than that, but it’s important to talk to your doctor about your specific dietary needs.

Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, and it also plays a role in maintaining muscle mass. Consuming enough protein can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied, which can be beneficial for weight management.

In addition to its high protein content, cottage cheese is also a good source of several vitamins and minerals. One cup of cottage cheese contains:

• Calcium: 138 mg (14% of the recommended daily intake)
• Vitamin B12: 0.5 mcg (21% of the recommended daily intake)
• Phosphorus: 260 mg (26% of the recommended daily intake)
• Selenium: 16.8 mcg (24% of the recommended daily intake)

What Are Cottage Cheese Bowls?

I’m not sure who gets credit for the catchy name of cottage cheese bowls, but it does make cottage cheese combinations sound a little more legit.

Cottage cheese bowls are as simple as the name – take a bowl and build a base of cottage cheese. Then top with your favorite toppings. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, there is a cottage cheese bowl recipe out there for you and in fact, I have over 50 Cottage Cheese Bowl recipe ideas for you below!

While cottage cheese bowls were looked at more as breakfast bowls in the past, they’ve come a long way and are most often used as lunch and dinner ideas for people who are looking for high protein meal options.

Cottage cheese bowls are easy to customize to your personal taste preferences and dietary needs.

They are also SO easy and quick to make. And y’all know I love easy recipes!

What goes well with cottage cheese?

There are so many foods that go well with cottage cheese, which leads us to some amazing combinations of cottage cheese bowls. Here are foods that pair so well with cottage cheese. You can eat them as a 2-ingredient cottage cheese bowl or combine a few of them to make it a little more complex.

Sweet Cottage Cheese Bowl Pairings

• Berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries)
• Mango
• Pineapple
• Kiwi
• Peach
• Pear
• Apple
• Banana
• Grapes
• Mandarin oranges
• Pomegranate seeds
• Cherries

Sweet cottage cheese bowls are a delicious and healthy way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Here are some options to consider:

• Fruit and Nut: Mix cottage cheese with chopped nuts and your favorite fruits, such as berries, bananas, or peaches. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup.
• Cinnamon and Apple: Mix cottage cheese with chopped apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Top with granola and a drizzle of honey.
• Chocolate and Peanut Butter: Mix cottage cheese with cocoa powder and peanut butter. Top with chopped peanuts and serve with sliced bananas.

Savory Cottage Cheese Bowl Pairings:

• Air fried Chickpeas
• Everything but the Bagel Seasoning
• Cucumbers
• Tomatoes
• Bacon [my FAVORITE topping for cottage cheese]
• Chicken Apple Sausage
• Avocado
• Nuts

Remember, the possibilities are endless when it comes to cottage cheese bowls. Experiment with different flavors and toppings to find your favorite combination. Speaking of favorite combinations, here are a few that I found that sound amazing.

Avocado, tomato, chopped chicken, and hot sauce

Raspberry, honey and almond slivers

Cucumber, tomatoes, green onions and everything bagel seasoning

Arugula, Buffalo tuna packet or some smoked salmon

Roasted tomatoes, oregano, balsamic glaze, and some fresh grated parmesan cheese

Chickpeas, cucumbers and just a bit of vinaigrette

Chunks of baked sweet potato and everything but the bagel seasoning

Pomegranate seeds and a drizzle of honey

Chopped cucumber, tomatoes, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil. Top with crumbled feta cheese and serve with pita bread.

Chopped sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. Top with sliced prosciutto and serve with crusty bread.

Blueberries, chia seeds, almonds, and a drizzle of honey

Strawberries, dark chocolate chips, walnuts, and cinnamon

TikTok Viral Cottage Cheese Bowl Recipes

If you’re like me and inundated with TikTok viral recipes, you’ve probably seen some of these.

• Pizza Cottage Cheese Bowl
• BLT Cottage Cheese Bowl
• Taco Cottage Cheese Bowl

The viral cottage cheese bowls have inspired me to make a few others, especially for lunch when I have leftovers of pulled pork and other meat dishes. I made this BBQ cottage cheese bowl and it was delicious and so filling. I’ve also made Philly Cheesesteak cottage cheese bowls several times!

Tips for Perfect Cottage Cheese Bowls

When it comes to making the perfect cottage cheese bowl, there are a few tips that I always follow to ensure that my bowl is both delicious and nutritious. Here are my top tips for making a perfect cottage cheese bowl:

1. Choose the right ingredients

At first I thought all cottage cheeses were equal. Spoiler alert – they are not. Spend a few extra dollars and get the good brands. I prefer Good Culture and Daisy. Always look at the ingredients list for any hidden preservatives or sugars.

2. Mix it up

To ensure that each bite of your cottage cheese bowl is packed with flavor, it’s important to mix up your ingredients well. I like to use a spoon to mix everything together, making sure that the cottage cheese is evenly distributed throughout the bowl. You won’t have that beautiful Instagram worthy picture, but it will taste so much better.

3. Get creative with toppings

One of the best things about cottage cheese bowls is that they are incredibly versatile, and you can get creative with your toppings, as you’ve already seen in the ideas above. Don’t knock an ingredient until you try it. Some toppings that I tried on a whim were ones I really loved, like bacon!

There you have it – cottage cheese bowls are a versatile and nutritious meal option that can be customized to suit individual tastes and dietary needs. They are quick and easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for busy mornings or lunchtimes, and as a post-workout snack. They have proven to be a nutritious way to fuel my body and keep me feeling energized throughout the day.

I’ve already shared over 40 combinations of cottage cheese bowls above, but check out more recipes below:

Roasted Strawberry Cottage Cheese Bowl

Rainbow cottage cheese bowl

Greek Salad Cottage Cheese Bowl

Cottage Cheese Crab Bowl

Bruschetta Chicken Bowls

Tomatillo Chicken Savory Cottage Cheese Bowl

Cantaloupe Bowl with Cottage Cheese Recipe

Chicken Alfredo Cottage Cheese Bowl

Savory Cottage Cheese Bowl

Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bowls 6 Ways

Blended Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bowls

Key Lime Pie Cheesecake

California Cottage Cheese Bowl

Berry Whipped Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bowl

Rainbow Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bowls

Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl

Cottage Cheese Burrito Bowl

Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bowl

Cottage Cheese and Fruit Bowls

So Easy Being Green

I’m getting ready to share with you, a recipe that is quite possibly the easiest recipe you’ve ever read.  So easy, in fact, that you’ll never cook your fresh, sweet corn in any other way.

So delicious that you’ll definitely proclaim that it’s the best way to cook corn on the cob and you’ll no longer reserve grilling for the summer only… it’ll be a side dish you will want to grill all year around!

How do you cook corn on the cob?

Do you boil it?  Oh, no no no.  If you do, please don’t anymore! All of that sweet deliciousness is being left right in your boiling water!

Do you microwave it?  Oh, Paula and Martha should be pounding on your door!  I don’t care how many promises Pinterest makes about the silks sliding right off when you microwave it, don’t do that either!

Do you grill it after ‘shucking’?  STOP! Yes those grill marks are so pretty, but you’re making more work for yourself. You’ll never have to use one of these again, although, it is pretty cool.

How to Cook Corn on the Cob in Husk

What does “Corn in Husk” mean? It’s simply referring to corn that hasn’t had the green outer leaves and silks removed. It’s the way you’ll often find it in the grocery store or at farmer’s markets.

My great aunt shared this way to prepare corn with me when I was younger. I’ve been doing it for a few years now and we’ll never fix corn on the cob a different way.

It’s delicious, easy, and easy. Oh, I already said that? Well, I do like easy recipes!

To keep your husks from burning and/or catching fire on your grill, be sure to soak them. You can do this in a bowl, but I just stick them straight in the sink.

I just leave my corn soaking in the sink, but you could also do this in a plastic tub outside or anywhere you are grilling.

Be sure they’re good and wet so your corn doesn’t dry out on the grill. You’ll want to soak corn for grilling for 15 minutes before you put it on a hot grill.

Transfer your soaking wet corn cobs to the grill.  I usually grill everything on Med-High. I put them right on the grill beside whatever else I’m grilling.

How long to grill corn on the cob in husks:

You’ll want to cook your corn on the grill slowly.

I use Med-High heat for just about everything I grill, including grilling corn in husk. I like to leave them about 15-20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes or so.

This grills all sides evenly and your husks will get nicely burn marks like this.

Don’t worry that your husks look a bit burned, your corn is safely protected inside! 

To serve, I hold the end of the corn with a towel because it’s very, very hot and pull the husks off. Believe it or not, those silks come off very easily. See, I told you to forget that microwave trick!

One of the reasons that I love to prepare corn this way is because I get to soak up the sunshine while I’m outside grilling and the girls get to play in the yard too!

My family looks forward to the Spring so we can be outside as much as possible, eat fresh vegetables and fruits, and grill!

We tried to plow a little space in our backyard garden a few years ago to plant our own corn, but didn’t have any luck so we stick with buying it at our local farmer’s market.

Rub a bit of butter on your corn and you’re good to go! Honestly, it doesn’t need butter because grilling the corn in husk keeps the super sweet flavor, but it’s hard to break habits. 

I love the flavor of this corn because even though we grill over propane instead of charcoal, you still get a delicious grilled taste!

We have even prepared grilled corn on cob in husk over a campfire while we were camping! We just throw a few sheets of aluminum foil right over the campfire ring grill and eat it picnic style.

Better yet, you can get a portable grill like this Weber Smokey Joe Portable Grill and some charcoal or wood chips and you’ll be set anywhere you want to grill.

Do you love to grill? Here are some of my other favorite grilling recipes!

• How to Cook Pork Tenderloin + Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe
• DIY Grilled Potato Skins Bar for Your Next BBQ
• The Best Homemade Coleslaw Hot Dog

Print

Grill Corn in Husk

Perfectly simple and delicious way to cook fresh corn in the summer and all year long. Once you start to grill corn in husk, you’ll never cook fresh corn a different way again!

Course Recipes

Ingredients

• Corn Ears [in husk!]
• Butter
• Salt & Pepper

Instructions

• Keep your corn ears in husk – don’t do a thing! Fill your sink with water and soak your corn for about 15 minutes before you’re ready to grill. While soaking, cut off the top silks and pull off the outer most layers of the husk. These are the parts of the corn that can sometimes get a little more burnt or catch fire, so it’s easier to just remove them.
• Grill your corn for about 20 minutes, turning every 5. When it’s good and “grilled”, take your corn off the grill and watch the silks and husk slide right off!
• Adorn with butter and salt & pepper for the most delicious corn you’ve ever tried!

Video

Once you start grilling your corn, you’ll never wonder how you should cook corn on the cob again!

So Easy Being Green

If there’s one thing my family loves, it’s a delicious dinner. If there’s one thing I love, it’s an easy-to-prepare delicious dinner.

By the end of the day, between school drop-offs and pick-ups, house work, and writing… this Mama is tired! That’s why you’ll almost always find 30 minutes meals prepared in our home, especially during the week and especially during the holidays.

One of my favorites to prepare is in fact, marinated pork loins because of those very reasons. Everyone in the family loves them and believe it or not, it takes just 30 minutes to cook.

With all of the holiday programs that the girls are involved in and all of the holiday baking that I’ve been doing, I need easy weeknight meals like these!

This week I decided to pair one of my favorite vegetables sides with the Smoked Bacon Pork Loin Filet.

Now, I’ll admit before you start thinking my children are little saints, that my husband and me are the only ones that love brussels sprouts. I can usually convince both girls to eat a crispy leaf from one, but that’s about as far as it goes.

Spoiler Alert: Sophia ate her entire portion of brussels sprouts with this meal! I’ll attribute it to the fact that they soaked up the delicious flavor of the apples and Smoked Bacon Pork Loin Filet.

A few months ago I shared another 30 minutes meals recipe, with a bacon twist of my own. My family loved this Smithfield Pork Loin so much that these tenderloins have been made a weekly staple in my dinner menu!

So imagine my delight when I saw the Smithfield Applewood Smoked Bacon Pork Loin Filet during my recent shopping trip. It’s a flavor that I have never found at another store and I immediately knew that it would turn into one of our favorites.

I am in love with this pork loin for a few reasons – the Smithfield marinated pork tenderloins are always perfectly seasoned and make the rest of your meal taste just as good. But I also love that there are a variety of ways to cook marinated pork loins. And they cook so quickly!

How to Cook a Smithfield Applewood Smoked Bacon Pork Loin

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2. Cut open and remove your Fresh Pork from package. Place in the center of your glass baking dish.
3. Chop brussels sprouts. I like to chop off the ends, then cut in halves.
4. Mix parmesan cheese, chopped garlic, balsamic vinegar, and EVOO with brussels sprouts. Salt & Pepper.
5. Place brussels sprouts mixture on each side of marinated pork loin filet.
6. Top with sliced apples.
7. Bake for 30 minutes at 400 degrees.

You can find the full recipe for this how to cook this marinated pork loin in the oven below!

You can also cook your Smithfield pork loin in an air fryer! I love using my air fryer for pork tenderloins because they turn out so juicy inside and perfectly cooked. Here are some tips on using your air fryer to cook a pork tenderloin:

• Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees, about 5 minutes. This is one of the only recipes that I usually preheat my air fryer and the reason is that it takes much less time to cook since it’s already at the desired temperature.
• No seasonings or rubs are required when you’re cooking a smithfield pork loin in air fryer because it’s already marinated!
• Be sure you are using a small Smithfield pork tenderloin. They are usually around 1 pound in weight and a 2 inch diameter. These cooking tips are for this size of a pork loin. If needed, you can cut it in half if you have a smaller air fryer.
• Cook your Smithfield pork tenderloin in air fryer for about 18 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 145 degrees.
• Let your pork loin rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.

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Applewood Smoked Bacon Pork Loin Filet with Apples and Brussels Sprouts

Course Recipes

Ingredients

• Marinated Applewood Smoked Bacon Pork Loin Filet
• 2-3 Cups of Chopped Brussels Sprouts
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan Cheese
• 1/2 tbsp chopped Garlic
• 2 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar
• 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Salt & Pepper to Taste
• 1-2 Apples sliced

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
• Cut open and remove your Fresh Pork from package. Place in the center of your glass baking dish.
• Chop brussels sprouts. I like to chop off the ends, then cut in halves.
• Mix parmesan cheese, chopped garlic, balsamic vinegar, and EVOO with brussels sprouts. Salt & Pepper.
• Place brussels sprouts mixture on each side of marinated pork loin filet.
• Top with sliced apples.
• Bake for 30 minutes at 400 degrees.

Video

Love pork tenderloin recipes? You’ll love these as well!

If you love the Smithfield Applewood Smoked Bacon Pork Loin, you’re going to love these other marinated pork loin choices too! Be sure to check out my recipes using the Smithfield Roasted Garlic and Herb Pork Loin to make this Grilled Pork Loin with Peaches and Potatoes.

And this 30 minute meal featuring my own bacon-wrapped version of Smithfield Marinated Pork Loin with a side of asparagus and potatoes!

So Easy Being Green

I love to make breakfast for my family, especially on the weekends. Some of their favorites are homemade French Toast with almond milk and our family’s favorite breakfast casserole. But recently when my daughter was having a sleepover, I needed to make a lot of breakfast and fast for all the girls.

That’s what inspired me to bake sausage links in the oven instead of cooking them in a frying pan like I usually do. I’m not sure there’s a wrong way to cook sausage links, but cooking them on a stove top is sometimes messy and seems to take forever.

Now that I’ve learned how to cook sausage links in the oven, I’ll never do it a different way! It just takes some simple steps and it really is an easy way to make a lot of sausage in a quicker amount of time.

You could also switch up the type of sausage you use for this recipe too! I most often make pork sausages, but you could also try chicken sausage or even turkey sausage in the oven. Different types of sausages may cook at different rates, so be sure to check the internal temps if you’re doing something other than pork sausage links like this recipe uses.

Be sure to keep in mind that you’ll want to adjust your cooking times if you use a thicker type of sausage, or check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.

The only thing you’ll need for this easy recipe is:

• Sausage Links
• Cooking Pan or Baking Sheet
• Aluminum Foil or Parchment Paper

You’ll notice I baked the sausage links on aluminum foil. You could also line your cookie sheet with parchment paper, if you have that instead. This makes for a much faster and easier clean-up.

These oven cooked sausages have very little oil and grease, but the aluminum foil or parchment paper on the baking sheet keeps clean up so easy.

They also have a relatively short cooking time, which means you can prepare a lot while you’re making something else. I also love to serve these with my almond milk pancakes. I cook the sausages when they are completely thawed. You could try frozen, but definitely lengthen the cooking time.

For best results, I recommend turning at least once during the cooking process so that your breakfast sausages will brown evenly. Cook times will vary, but I’ve found that 20-25 minutes is a great length of time for these to cook nicely.

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Oven Baked Sausage Links

These oven baked sausage links taste delicious and have a short cooking time.

Prep Time 1 minute minute

Cook Time 25 minutes minutes

Total Time 26 minutes minutes

Author Lindsey Blogs at SEBG

Ingredients

• Sausage Links that have been thawed

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
• Line baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper [optional].
• Lay out sausage links in a single layer.
• Bake for 18-25 minutes, turning once in the middle so sausage links will brown evenly.

Video

In fact, you could probably use this same method in the air fryer too.

So Easy Being Green

This post may contain affiliate links. By purchasing through these links, I may make a commission. Thank you for your support.

A few years ago, when my oldest daughter, Sophia, started to go to friends’ houses for playdates and the occasional sleepover, we looked at getting her a phone. First we looked at just adding a phone to our current cell phone plan, but decided that was a little more than we wanted to pay.

Then we looked at getting a prepaid cell phone, but was shocked to see those prices, as well. We ultimately chose a Gabb Wireless phone for her and have been super happy with it. But we weren’t quite sure our youngest daughter, Moreaya, was ready for a phone.

That’s why I decided to give the Gabb Wireless watch a try for her. Before we get into my Gabb watch for Kids review and what I think about it, let me share with you some specs and key features about this watch phone.

Gabb Watch 3e Features:

• The watch can make and receive phone calls. [But only to and from parent pre-approved contacts – 100 approved contacts allowed.]
• The watch can text and receive texts. [But again, only to approved contacts.] Can set pre-text messages or dictate text messages.
• The watch can send emojis and voice messages.
• The watch will NOT receive any outside texts or phone calls [outside of contacts] – HUGE safety feature for younger kids.
• GPS tracking [able to track where watch is + add safe zones]
• Lock Mode [making the watch safe to wear to school with no distractions]
• Has Calculator, Alarm, Timer, and Stopwatch.

The Gabb Watch 3e boasts strengthened durability with better water resistance, as well as more storage and more memory!

One thing to keep in mind with all Gabb products is that they are used on their own network. You cannot buy this watch from Gabb and put it on your AT&T or Verizon account. You purchase service directly from Gabb Wireless and the monthly costs vary depending on if you choose a contract.

Gabb Watch 3e Prices are:

• Gabb Watch costs $149.99 or $6.24/month with a Gabb cellular plan.
• 2 year contract – $12.99/month
• 1 year contract – $14.99/month
• Month to Month (no contract) – $17.99/month

*If you use code LINDS, you can usually get a great discount on the watch and/or free accessory – depending on the monthly promotion!

One of the biggest reasons I chose the Gabb watch over the phone for my 9 year old was the wearable factor. She’s not quite ready to keep up with a phone, whether at home or outside the home, so I love that she can actually wear the watch so it’s not as easily lost.

The older version of the Gabb watch was very durable for us, so I’m sure the improvements have made it even more so.

I also loved the extra control I feel like I have with it. While she is learning and gaining more responsibility as she nears pre-teen years, she IS STILL A KID, at 10 years old. I like that I have complete control over who she can call and text.

I am able to adjust these settings within the Gabb app on my smartphone. I can add contacts for her, as well as add up to 20 pre-written text messages she can select from. The watch comes loaded with some already, but she lets me know if she wants me to add any, also.

Aside from being able to text the pre-written text messages, she can also text emojis… which she does… a lot. She can also record audio messages to text to me, which is very helpful when there’s not a pre-written text that fits what she wants to say.

I also LOVE the GPS feature in this watch. I can easily check her location from my Gabb app on my smartphone and feel at ease knowing she’s where she’s supposed to be. This was such a huge feature and why she wore her Gabb watch when we went to Universal Studios just a few weeks ago.

Moreaya has had her Gabb watch for a few months now so we have both become very familiar with it and how it works. I’ll admit that she knows how to use it much better than I do, even within just a few hours she knew all about the pet game on the watch. Think of it as a Tamagotchi style pet game. I still don’t fully understand what she does with it, but she does and likes it!

Moreaya does wear her watch to school and we have had zero problems with that. I am able to lock the watch from my Gabb app on a schedule or on demand. That means her watch can only be used to call her Guardian, which is me, in case of an emergency.

And there’s no worry with calls coming through from her other contacts or even spam or stranger calls because those are blocked when the phone is locked [spam and stranger calls are always blocked – the watch only allows calls from her approved contacts].

One thing to keep in mind is that the Gabb watch has it’s own phone number attached to it. This isn’t like a smart watch that will sync with a phone, this is a phone alternative. I feel like it’s best suited for kids ages 5-12, which is what Gabb recommends, although it’s definitely up to the child and their needs as to whether the Gabb watch or Gabb phone would be a better fit.

At 10 years old, we are sticking with the Gabb watch for Moreaya for at least a little while longer. Again, I love that control of knowing NO ONE can call or text her outside of her approved contacts. I get so frustrated with spam calls and texts and just don’t feel like a 10 year old would handle something like that.

I feel like the Gabb watch is best suited for kids who are actively involved in extracurricular activities, who are spending a little more time away from home, and who are looking for some independence when it comes to calling and texting family and friends. I think it’s an excellent step towards introducing some tech into their world without opening all the doors too soon.

If your child is a little older, I encourage you to check out the Gabb Phone. I’ve shared all about this great flexible phone for teenagers in this review.

If you want to learn a little more about the technical aspects of the Gabb watch, I encourage you to read this review as they discuss a little more in-depth about the watch and how it works.

If your child isn’t quite ready for a safe smart phone like the Gabb phone, the Gabb watch makes a great first phone. And don’t forget to use my Gabb discount code LINDS to save money!

So Easy Being Green

It IS possible to make almond milk pudding and here’s how!

When my daughter, Sophia, was diagnosed with a milk allergy at the age of 3, I thought the world was ending. I had no clue about any type of food allergies or dairy alternatives.

Things were WAY different then – I could barely find almond milk at Walmart. But now it’s readily available and perfect for making instant pudding!

The ingredients for most Jell-O brand instant puddings are dairy-free. By using a non-dairy milk such as almond milk you keep this simple instant pudding dairy-free and even vegan.

Can you make instant pudding with almond milk?

Yes, the key is you just use LESS almond milk than the box recipe for cow’s milk. If you use that much almond milk, you’re going to end up with a soupy mess.

IShe was as happy as me that we have FINALLY figured out how to make a delicious almond milk pudding!

Expert Tip for making Almond Milk Pudding: The trick to making pudding with almond milk is using less than you would if you were using traditional dairy milk.

I found the trick to making instant pudding with almond milk is using 1 1/4 cup of almond milk [instead of 2 cups like the directions say to use] will give you the perfect pudding consistency.

There you have it, it IS possible to make instant pudding with almond milk!

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Instant Pudding with Almond Milk

Servings 4

Ingredients

• 1 box Small Box of Instant Pudding – 3.9 oz
• 1 1/4 cup Almond Milk

Instructions

• Whisk together almond milk and instant pudding mix.

  If pudding is thicker than you prefer, add a tablespoon of almond milk at a time.
• Refrigerate until ready to enjoy!

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