how did elf on a shelf start

Elf on the Shelf started as a simple tradition in 1978. A family placed a small elf doll on a shelf in their home during the holiday season. They told their children that the elf was a magical scout sent by Santa to keep an eye on them and report back to him. The children were enchanted by the idea and eagerly anticipated seeing what the elf would do each day. The family later published a book in 2005 that explained the tradition in more detail and featured the elf in various scenarios. Today, Elf on the Shelf has become a popular holiday tradition worldwide.