Elf on the shelf is a fun holiday tradition, where families place a small elf figure in different locations of their home each night to watch over their children's behavior. While the idea of a toy elf magically flying back to Santa each night to report on the children's behavior is pure imagination, the elf itself is a real doll made from various materials, often cloth and plastic, and is designed to look adorable and mischievous. The elf is placed on the shelf as a fun way for parents to engage in the Christmas spirit with their children.