what's the point of elf on the shelf

Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas tradition that encourages children to be good throughout the holiday season. Each day leading up to Christmas, the elf is placed somewhere new in the house to remind children of Santa's watchful eye. When children are bad, the elf reports back to Santa, but when they're good, the elf brings them treats and gifts. It's a fun way to keep children on their best behavior and get them excited about the holidays.