Elf on the shelf letter goodbye template
As the holiday season wraps up, it’s time to bid farewell to your Elf on the Shelf. Here’s a template that will help make this moment both magical and memorable for your little ones.
Template for the Goodbye Letter
Feel free to adjust the wording to fit your family’s traditions and style. This letter is meant to be heartfelt and cheerful, leaving your children with happy memories of the elf’s visit.
Dear [Child's Name],
It’s time for me to go! I’ve had so much fun watching over you this season, and I’ve loved seeing all the great things you’ve done.
Santa is so proud of how well you've been behaving, and I’ll be telling him all about your kindness, your laughter, and your joy during this magical time of year.
I’ll be back again next Christmas, so make sure to keep being as wonderful as you are. I’ll miss you, but don’t worry – I’ll always be watching over you, even from afar.
Take care, and keep being awesome!
Love,
Your Elf on the Shelf
Tips for Personalizing the Goodbye Letter
- Include a personal touch: Mention something specific about your child’s actions during the holiday season, like a particular moment when they showed kindness or joy.
- Add a little surprise: Leave behind a small gift or note from the elf to keep the magic alive.
- Keep it lighthearted: This letter should feel warm and cheerful, reminding them that the elf will be back next year!
Additional Ideas
- Encourage your child to write their own letter back to the elf, thanking them for the visit.
- Leave a special reminder, like a tiny toy or a festive sticker, to keep the excitement going until next Christmas.
Sending your elf off with a special goodbye letter is a great way to make the end of the season just as magical as the beginning.
Elf on the Shelf Letter Goodbye Template: Practical Guide
How to Personalize the Farewell Note
Best Phrases for the Elf’s Departure
When to Give the Farewell Letter
Adding Fun Activities with the Goodbye Note
What to Include in the Elf’s Last Message
How to Engage Your Kids in the Goodbye Ritual
Start by writing a letter that feels like it’s coming directly from the Elf, using a friendly, playful tone. Mention how the Elf has enjoyed being part of the family’s holiday traditions, keeping an eye on the kids’ behavior, and spreading cheer throughout the season. Personalize it by referencing specific moments the Elf witnessed, like the kids helping with decorations or singing carols.
For a heartfelt touch, include phrases like “I’ll miss watching your laughter and kindness!” or “I’m so proud of all the good you’ve done this season!”. These warm expressions create a sense of closure and make the farewell feel more genuine. If you’ve created special memories, like decorating the tree together, mention them in the letter to make the goodbye even more personal.
Hand the letter to your kids on the Elf’s last day of being in the house. You can place it next to the Elf or leave it in a surprise spot. Timing the farewell letter for Christmas Eve or the last day before the Elf leaves will ensure the moment feels meaningful. Consider adding a small treat or a reminder of the Elf’s mission as a keepsake.
Add some interactive fun by including a small activity in the letter. A few ideas include leaving a challenge, like a scavenger hunt to find the Elf’s favorite hiding spot or a drawing activity. This can make the goodbye feel less sad and more exciting, as the kids get involved in sending the Elf off with joy.
In your final message, include a bit of magic. A small reminder that the Elf will return next season, or a promise to keep an eye out for the kids’ good deeds even after they’ve left, can add a sense of hope and anticipation for the following year. A simple line like “Keep being good, and I’ll be back next Christmas!” can go a long way in making the farewell feel positive.
Engage your kids in the ritual by encouraging them to leave their own farewell notes or drawings for the Elf. This not only creates a fun family tradition but also helps them feel connected to the process. Ask them what they’ll miss most about the Elf and what they hope to show the Elf next year–this can help wrap up the experience with a sense of completion and excitement for the future.