what is the meaning of elf on a shelf

The tradition of Elf on the Shelf involves placing an elf doll in a prominent location in a child's room during the Christmas season. The elf doll is said to be a secret Santa scout, reporting to Santa every night to relay the child's behavior. The elf doll is then moved to a new location each day, creating a fun and playful way for families to engage in the holiday spirit. The tradition originated in 2005 with a book called "Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition."