Late elf arrival letter: free and editable

How to use it

1. Type the names. The letter updates as you type.
2. Pick the version: first visit, welcome back, running late, two elves or a classroom.
3. Print it, or save the PDF and print it at work or the library.
4. Roll it up, tie it with ribbon or baker's twine, and leave it next to your elf on the first morning.

Print on cream or kraft paper if you have it. For a tiny elf-sized letter, print at 50% and trim. Most families bring the elf out between the day after Thanksgiving and December 1.

What the letter says

With the example names. Yours will have the names you type.

Dear Emma,

I made it! I am so sorry I'm late. I know you have been looking for me.

A big snowstorm rolled over the North Pole just as I was leaving, and no elf was allowed to fly until it cleared. Then my ride, a very sleepy reindeer, needed one more nap. I got here as fast as I could.

Now that I'm here, everything works the same as always. Each night I fly back to tell Santa about your day, and each morning you'll find me somewhere new. Please remember not to touch me, so my magic stays strong.

Thank you for waiting for me. I promise to make up for lost time!

Better late than never, Jingle

All versions

• First-time elf arrival letter: The letter for the very first year. It introduces your elf, explains the nightly trip to the North Pole and the one rule, in words a small child can follow.
• Elf welcome back letter: For families whose elf has visited before. Short, warm, and it reminds everyone of the rule without a lecture.
• Late elf arrival letter: December got busy and the elf did not show up on time. This letter explains the delay with a snowstorm and a sleepy reindeer, so nobody has to know the real reason.
• Arrival letter from two elves: For homes with more than one elf, or the year a second elf joins. Type both elf names in the elf box, for example Jingle and Snowflake.
• Classroom elf arrival letter: For teachers. Type the class or room name instead of a child's name. The letter keeps the focus on kindness and teamwork, and never mentions gifts or who has been good or bad.

More to make

Elf daily notes24 little notes from the elf, one for each morning. Elf reminder letterA gentle nudge from the elf: be kind, tidy up, go to bed. Elf goodbye letterA see-you-next-year letter for Christmas Eve. Letter from SantaA personal letter from Santa with your child's name. Letter to SantaA fill-in page for your child to write to Santa. Nice list certificateAn official-looking certificate signed by Santa.