Floor is Lava – Elf on the Shelf Edition – A Festive Twist on a Classic Game

Imagine a world where the once-familiar comfort of your living room floor suddenly transforms into a fiery inferno. The couch? A safe haven. The coffee table? A makeshift island. The dog bed? A perilous lava rock. This isn’t a scene from a disaster movie; it’s the mischievous game of “Floor is Lava,” and for Christmas, it gets an extra dose of magic with the addition of the beloved Elf on the Shelf.

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This festive twist, known as “Floor is Lava: Elf on the Shelf Edition,” combines the classic game’s thrill with the holiday spirit of the mischievous scout elves. It’s a fun and imaginative activity that can bring laughter and excitement to families during the Christmas season. But before your living room transforms into an obstacle course of holiday decor, let’s explore the history and intricacies of this unique game.

The Origins of Floor is Lava

Floor is Lava, as a game, has roots in a childhood, instinctive fear of danger. The concept itself is simple; the floor is a danger zone, and players must find anything else to stand on, similar to the “Don’t Touch the Ground” game. However, its origin as a structured game is more elusive, likely originating from playground games with a simple premise translated into a home environment.

There is no official documentation tracing the game back to a specific individual or time period. However, references to “Floor is Lava” can be found in popular culture, with the game gaining prominence in the early 2000s. This is due in part to its simplicity and its natural versatility. With a little imagination, any space can be transformed into a lava-filled landscape.

The Elf on the Shelf Phenomenon

The Elf on the Shelf, a beloved Christmas tradition, is the brainchild of author Carol Aebersold and her daughter Chanda Bell. The book “The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition” was released in 2005 and quickly became a holiday staple. The story tells the tale of Scout Elves who visit families at Christmas, observing children’s behavior and reporting back to Santa. The accompanying elf dolls, with their red Santa hats and wide-eyed expressions, have captured the hearts of millions.

The Elf on the Shelf’s popularity is rooted in its ability to foster a sense of wonder and excitement amongst children. Every morning, children awaken to the elf’s new position in the house, sparking their imagination and creating a sense of anticipation for Christmas. The elves, however, are not static figures; they are mischievous and playful, often engaging in activities that bring a chuckle to children and adults alike.

Merging Fun: When Floor is Lava Meets the Elf on the Shelf

The combination of Floor is Lava and the Elf on the Shelf has created a festive and engaging game that can be played by families of all ages. The game’s natural flexibility allows for endless variations, each adapting to the unique layout and décor of a home, creating challenges that are both fun and age-appropriate.

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How to Play Floor is Lava: Elf on the Shelf Edition

Playing Floor is Lava: Elf on the Shelf Edition is as simple as it sounds. The floor becomes the “lava,” and players must avoid touching it, using various objects and furniture as safe zones. The Elf on the Shelf acts as a mischievous guide, setting up challenges within a carefully constructed lava-filled environment.

Here are some key elements to consider when playing:

• Setting the Lava Zone: The most important part of the game is defining where the lava flow is. This can include parts of the room, such as the flooring, or it can extend to furniture, depending on the difficulty level.
• Creating Safe Zones: Safe zones are the areas where players can stand without the risk of touching the lava. These can include tables, chairs, couches, bookshelves, or any other raised platform. This is where the Elf on the Shelf’s strategic placement comes into play. Some examples include:
• Placing the elf on a precarious perch atop a lamp, forcing players to carefully navigate a path around the heat source.
• Guiding the players through an obstacle course of Christmas decorations, making them jump over ornaments, under garlands, and past twinkling lights.
• Arranging chairs and stools in a “lava-obstacle course,” requiring agility and quick thinking to navigate.
• Playing with Elf on the Shelf: Players can interact with the Elf on the Shelf during the game, adding a playful element. For example, the elf could be assigned a task to hinder players’ progress, such as throwing candy canes onto the “lava” to make it harder to reach a safe zone.
• Add Difficulty Levels: For younger players, start with a simple setup with a limited lava zone. As players gain confidence, introduce more challenging obstacles, such as smaller safe zones or a wider “lava” zone.

The Benefits of Playing Floor is Lava: Elf on the Shelf Edition

This festive twist on the classic game offers a range of benefits for players of all ages.

• Enhances Creativity: The game encourages players to think creatively and use their environment to navigate the challenges.
• Improves Problem-Solving: Players must strategize, plan their movements, and adapt to the changing environment to avoid the “lava.”
• Boost Confidence: It encourages physical activity, as players move and jump around the room, boosting confidence and coordination.
• Promotes Family Bonding: The game is a great way for families to spend quality time together, encouraging laughter and shared experiences.

Safety Considerations

While Floor is Lava: Elf on the Shelf Edition is a fun and engaging game, safety is paramount. It is important to consider the following safety guidelines:

• Supervision: Always supervise children while they are playing, especially if they are younger. Consider taking turns if playing as a family.
• Clear the Area: Ensure that the play area is free of any obstacles that could be tripped over or cause injury.
• Choose Appropriate Safe Zones: Make sure the safe zones are sturdy and can support the weight of the players. Avoid using unstable furniture or objects.
• Avoid Throwing Objects: Discourage throwing things, as it can lead to accidents. Encourage safe, imaginative play.

Floor is Lava: Elf on the Shelf Edition Beyond the Game

The magic of Floor is Lava: Elf on the Shelf Edition extends beyond the game itself. The creativity sparked by the game can ignite a sense of fun and imagination, influencing other activities throughout the holiday season.

Here are some ideas for incorporating the essence of this game into other festive activities:

• Elf on the Shelf Scavenger Hunt: Create a scavenger hunt where the Elf on the Shelf provides clues and hints, leading participants to hidden locations in a “lava” filled world. The final location could be a special treat or a cherished Christmas tradition.
• Elf on the Shelf Storytime: Write a story about the Elf on the Shelf’s adventures, incorporating the game’s themes into the narrative.
• Elf on the Shelf Craft Activities: Craft “lava” themed decorations, such as painted rocks that represent the lava flow, or build mini-islands and safe zones out of cardboard or construction paper.

Floor Is Lava Elf On The Shelf

Conclusion

Floor is Lava: Elf on the Shelf Edition is a delightful and imaginative twist on a classic game, bringing the magic of the holiday season to life. It encourages creativity, problem-solving, and family bonding while fostering a sense of wonder and excitement. So, gather your family, embrace the spirit of adventure, and let the floor be lava. Who knows what adventures the Elf on the Shelf will lead you on? Remember, the joy of the game is in the spirit of playful exploration, and the memories created will last long after the “lava” has cooled and the elf has returned to the North Pole.