“Santa is watching you to make sure you’re good”
or “The Elf on the Shelf is going to report back to Santa so you better be good/clean your room/etc.”
These phrases (and anything of the like) are manipulative and teach children nothing. What does “be good” mean? Why is it okay that “someone” (Santa/Elf in this case) are watching your kids? Not to mention that you are the parent/guardian/caregiver of your children and it is up to you to teach your children about their behaviour, not Santa or an Elf on the Shelf. Using these phrases might “work” this time of year, but what about the other months of the year? How are you managing behaviour then?
The Elf on the Shelf was created to bring joy and magic to the holiday season. But what I’ve seen it turn into is a tool for behavioural management. And that irks me.
It’s time we stopped with this, TEACH children how to understand their emotions and behaviours. It is important that we teach our kids how to be aware of how they are feeling, why they are feeling this way, and what they can do to effectively and appropriately manage those feelings - empowering them to manage stress, improve focus, and develop a deeper connection to themselves and the world around them.
It's time we bring back the magic the Elf was created for.
Wondering What’s inside? take a look!
Wolf and Whimsy Kids is such an inspiring and playful brand!
My boys love to do the different mindfulness activities she shares.
We really enjoy her book “ROAR like a Dragon”. The book gives exercises that the kids can learn to do on their own and/or with their parent which teaches them emotional development and intelligence as well as nervous system regulation. It allows you to use your imagination and transform into the different animals creating a fun & connecting experience for all!
As a homeschool mom and a registered nurse, I highly recommend to check out all this brand has to offer!
It is a beautiful way to expand and grow with your littles whether you are a mama, homeschool teacher, grandparent, love and care for a child in anyways and hey let’s be real.. we all have a inner child within us that would love to come out and play using this fun techniques!!
jackie B
The book that you sent [ROOOAAARRR! Like A Dragon] just arrived, so we got to read it to the kids last night, and they loved it.
It's a beautiful book.
Thank you so much for sending it to us.
I love that you incorporated beautiful breathing exercises and imaginal mindfulness. That's just perfect…perfect for kids.
Perfect for where my kids are developmentally right now. So thank you.
Amy B
what's included in your mindful Elf on the Shelf idea book
This Elf on the Shelf Mindful Ideas for Kids was created as an easy-to-implement and easy-to-use way to introduce or include mindfulness into your child/ren’s day.
Throughout this book you will find links to some of my favorite Wolf and Whimsy Kids resources and blog posts
- who am I kidding, they’re all my favorite 😂 -
to give you more information on mindfulness and the benefits of practicing, provide you with easy ways to implement these Elf on the Shelf ideas, and help you bring these ideas to life...
in a way that make your kids feel as though they are just as magical as the Elf on the Shelf.
24 days of mindful Elf on the Shelf ideas
welcome & leaving messages and activities
+ additional daily Elf on the Shelf ideas
resources to help you - guided imagery scripts, free downloads, blog posts, breathing techniques, + more!
In today’s fast-paced world, teaching our children mindfulness is an incredible gift that fosters emotional resilience and enhances overall well-being. As kids learn to navigate their lives filled with school, friendships, extracurriculars, and the distractions of technology, mindfulness offers a grounding practice that helps them cultivate awareness and presence.
Encouraging mindfulness in kids is a powerful tool for nurturing their emotional well-being and resilience. By integrating simple practices or mindful moments into daily routines, we can help children develop a greater awareness of their thoughts and feelings. These moments of stillness empower kids to navigate life’s challenges with calm and clarity, fostering a sense of connection to themselves and the world around them.
We’re not just teaching our kids to be present; we’re equipping them with essential skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
as seen in:
