are elfs on the shelfs real

*Elf smiles warmly and shakes their head.* Elf: No, the elf on the shelf concept is not real. It's just a fun holiday tradition that has been popularized in recent years. It's a way for families to have some extra holiday fun and make special memories together. The idea is that the elf is a mischievous helper who watches over children and reports back to Santa if they've been naughty or nice. It's a cute and playful concept, but it's not based on any real elves.