what is the elf on shelf

The Elf on the Shelf is a popular children's book and tradition that revolves around a mischievous elf who helps Santa Claus keep an eye on children. The book was created by a mother and daughter team, Carol Aebersold and Chanda Bell, and has since been transformed into a doll that children can play with. Each family receives their own elf that comes to life each night and reports back to Santa on the child's behavior, and in the morning the elf is found in a new location in the house. It's a fun and magical way to get children excited about the holiday season.