Elf on a Shelf is a tradition where a special elf doll is placed in a home to watch over children's behavior and report back to Santa. The idea is that if the children are well-behaved, Santa will reward them with gifts on Christmas Day. Elf on a Shelf is a fun way to encourage children to behave and make good choices during the holiday season. It also adds a bit of magic and wonder to the holiday season for children.