what is elf on a shelf

Elf on a Shelf is a magical Christmas tradition where a scout elf is sent from the North Pole to watch over children and report their behavior back to Santa. Each day, the elf finds a new hiding spot in the home, sometimes perched high up where no one can see it, sometimes in plain sight, but always observing the children's actions. In the evening, the elf flies back to the North Pole to report to Santa about the day's activities. This tradition helps promote kindness and good behavior leading up to Christmas.