Spice up the Holidays with original elf-on-a-shelf ideas to surprise your kids

Elf on a shelf is back again this year from December 1 to 24. The elves have been around for a few years, so it might be getting harder to keep the idea fresh and fun. Never fear! We've searched high and low on the Web for wacky and original ideas that will surprise your kids—and take the pressure off you, too. The websites are all in French.

Popular website Maman pour la vie recently listed off 12 elf tricks for stressed out—or slacker—parents. We particularly like the elf with a sweet tooth who’s trying to brush her (or his) teeth with chocolate syrup!

Like making things? Trucs et bricolages is crafts website that’s collected 50 fun photos featuring great ideas for your elf. The spaghetti with jujubes and marshmallows is sure to get a giggle out of your kids.

Poupons et Cie (Babies & co.) has chosen their top 35 elf tricks These are tricks that have been thoroughly vetted. We were particularly taken with the gift-wrapped toilet. Ho ho ho!

Tricks tested by the staff at Promutuel Insurance

We asked around the office for inspiring elf-on-a-shelf tricks dreamed up by our colleagues during Christmases past. Here are some testimonials: