Yes, the Elf on the Shelf can move. He is a Christmas decoration that has been known to be magical, and it is said that he is able to move on his own. The idea is that the Elf on the Shelf is placed in your home to watch the children's behavior and report it back to Santa Claus. While he is in your home, he is said to move around the house, observing the children and making sure they are on their best behavior. The elf is often placed in a new location each night, causing the children to wonder where he will show up next.