The Elf on the Shelf is a fun holiday tradition that involves a small elf who sits on a shelf and watches over children. The elf is magically activated and reports to Santa every night about the children's behavior, so that Santa can decide whether to leave presents under the tree or if the children have been naughty. To get an Elf on the Shelf, parents can purchase one from the store or make their own. Once the elf is acquired, it is placed on a shelf and the magic begins!