what is elf.on the shelf

Elf on the Shelf is a popular Christmas tradition where an elf doll is placed in a family's home to watch over children's behavior and report to Santa Claus. The tradition originated in Germany, where families would place a special elf in the home to ensure children didn't misbehave during the Christmas season. The elf would secretly observe the children's behavior and report back to Santa Claus. The tradition eventually became a beloved holiday tradition in the United States and has been popularized by the Elf on the Shelf product line.