Stuck Outside Patio Door
How it's done
Spray fake snow or draw paint footprints up to the patio door with the elf pressed against the glass from outside. Add a note begging to come in.
Should be fine around pets as long as you place it out of reach.
Why this works
Outdoor scenes are the rare ones kids don't forget — snow angels, window peeks, mailbox surprises. Weather-dependent, high impact. This mid-difficulty scene trades a little more setup time for a bigger 'wow' moment when your kids walk in.
If it doesn't go to plan
If the elf ends up too well-hidden and the kids can't find it, nudge them with a vague hint ("Looks like our elf went somewhere cozy") — the discovery is the point.
Credit: This idea comes from MyKidsTime . Visit the original post for more ideas and photos.
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