It's December, and for many parents it means elves on shelves are back.

The idea started in the US with a small toy elf who appears in homes on December 1.

Throughout the month he hides around the house, causing chaos and being naughty.

Often there is a note, reminding children to be good for Santa.

Parents are encouraged to move the toy around the house throughout the month.

But as you can imagine, the creativity might start to wane a little as mums and dads and grandparents get busier towards the big day.

Bournemouth Echo:

We'd love to see your most creative ideas, which we will share with our readers.

So far we've had dozens of pictures - some of official Elf on the Shelf products - and some inspired by the craze. 

Some of your pictures are taken using official Elf on the Shelf products and some arent.

For those of you taking part, here's five you may not have thought of...

Please note: the Elf on the Shelf producers would like us to point out that not all the toys in these pictures are the genuine Elf on the Shelf brand'