what is the meaning of the elf on a shelf

The Elf on the Shelf is a popular holiday tradition in which a small toy elf is placed on a shelf or a specific spot in the home to observe children's behavior. It is said that the elf reports their findings to Santa Claus, and children are encouraged to be on their best behavior in hopes of earning a spot on the "nice" list. The tradition is believed to have originated from a book called "The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition" written by Carol Aebersold and her daughters.