what is elf on a shelf mean

Elf on a shelf is a Christmas tradition where a small elf figurine is placed on a shelf in a house to watch children's behavior and report it back to Santa. The elf is usually placed on a high shelf or in a hidden spot to make it seem like he is watching over the kids. In the morning, children wake up to find the elf has moved to a new location. This is to keep the magic of Christmas alive and make children behave well. It's a fun way for families to bring Christmas spirit and magic into their homes.