Elf Skillz: Your Child Development Elf on the Shelf Solution
Many parents enlist Elf on the Shelf to remind our kids that he/she’s keeping tabs on them and letting Santa know if they should be on the ‘naughty’ or ‘nice’ list… 
Although we at American Family Martial Arts appreciate the concept, we’ve put together a cool adaptation to help utilize Elf on the Shelf as another support tool just like our instructors! One of the things we attempt at AFMA is modeling positive behaviors instead of negative ones. Elf on the shelf is “negative” because it is watching a child to see if they are naughty. However, this concept doesn’t align with SKILLZ theories for child development as we believe threats, coercion, and punishments do more harm for behavior modifications, particularly during COVID. Our Elf (called Nigel by the way) focuses on positive skill building.
Here’s how it works:
- There are 8 Elf SKILLZ.
- Each night, have the Elf leave a challenge or message alternating through one skill, in order.
- Rotate through each one 3 times equals 24 days of Elf SKILLZ starting December 1st.
For even more fun and better results, the child can earn 5 points each day they complete the challenge and then the Elf 
will leave a small gift once they receive 20 points. Gifts can include candy, money, art supplies, etc.
Here are the SKILLZ:
- Manners
- Kindness
- Bravery
- Creativity
- Self-Control
- Loving
- Healthiness
- Cooperation
The creator of Skillz Worldwide, Melody Johnson, is documenting what she does this year for her son Van! Check it out for inspiration: Elf skillz: making Elf-ing Fun!
Click here for sample text you can print out as a note from the Elf on the first night.
Click here for a sample challenge targeting a 5 & 6-year old 
Click here for a quick cheat sheet of subtopics for each of the Elf SKILLZ
We hope the ELF SKILLZ inspires you to use this concept in a more positive and productive manner!
Also, be sure to use the hashtag #ElfSkillz if you make posts on your social media pages. Feel free to share with your friends!
At American Family Martial Arts we introduced Nigel the Ninja several years ago. He’s a big hit with the kids during December. When they come into the school, if they find Nigel, their names are entered into a drawing for a cool prize. The hardest thing is getting them to NOT tell everyone where Nigel is! 
To learn more about the powerful Skillz child development program that uses elements of martial arts training as the vehicle for growth, or to get your child started at either our Baton Rouge or Prairieville location, click the button below:
American Family Martial Arts
call: 225.272.5425
email: [email protected]
locations in Baton Rouge and Prairieville