One of December’s most magical moments for Aussie families is waking up to see where The Elf on the Shelf® Scout Elf has landed overnight.
From hanging off the fairy lights to getting into the Tim Tams, these playful helpers bring a little North Pole cheer into homes all across Australia. But every now and then, even the most careful families experience a little elf emergency.
Maybe a curious child gave their Scout Elf an unexpected pat, or perhaps the family’s kelpie thought your Scout Elf was a new toy to play with. Whatever the case, don’t worry, Santa has a few North Pole–approved tricks to help your Scout Elf regain their Christmas magic.

What Happens When an Elf is Touched?
According to Santa, The Elf on the Shelf® Scout Elves rely on special Christmas magic to make their nightly flights back to the North Pole. When they’re accidentally handled by humans, that magic can fade for a short while.
This means your Scout Elf might not be able to make their journey home that night to report to Santa, something no elf ever wants to miss!
Thankfully, Santa’s team of North Pole experts have shared a few simple ways to bring that magic right back. The key ingredient? Belief.
How to Help Your Scout Elf Regain Their Magic
There are three official North Pole remedies to help your Scout Elf recover. Choose one or try them all, each one reminds Santa’s helpers that Christmas spirit is alive and well in your home.
- Write a Letter to Santa
Encourage your child to write a heartfelt note explaining what happened. Whether it’s a quick apology or a promise to be extra careful in future, this simple act shows belief, the most powerful source of all Christmas magic. Pop the note beside your elf before bedtime, and Santa will see it when the elf checks in. - Sprinkle Cinnamon Nearby
Cinnamon is like a North Pole vitamin for Scout Elves! A tiny sprinkle of cinnamon next to (but never on!) your elf before bedtime helps recharge their magic overnight. By morning, your elf will be glowing with festive energy, ready to continue their cheeky adventures. - Sing a Christmas Carol
Gather the family around the tree and sing your favourite Christmas song. “Jingle Bells,” “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town,” or even “Six White Boomers” all work wonders. Scout Elves love hearing joyful singing, it fills the air with belief and helps them soar again.
Keep the Magic Alive!
Once your Scout Elf’s magic has been restored, they’ll be back to their merry mischief in no time, perhaps hiding in the pantry, balancing on a surfboard ornament, or even joining the fairy bread fun at breakfast!
To help keep that Christmas sparkle shining:
- Encourage your kids to look, not touch, each morning.
- Read The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition book together to remind little believers how the magic works.
- Create a special “Elf Landing Zone” (a shelf, mantle, or window ledge) that’s safely out of reach of curious hands and paws.
And remember, belief in Santa, kindness, and family fun is what fuels every Scout Elf’s magic. Whether you’re celebrating in the heat of a Gold Coast summer or gathered by a cosy Melbourne Christmas tree, that spirit connects families right across Australia.
Want more magical tips or frequently asked elf questions answered? Visit The Elf on the Shelf® blog for plenty of family-friendly ideas and North Pole-approved advice.