what is the point of elf on a shelf

The point of Elf on a Shelf is to promote good behavior and holiday cheer in children during the Christmas season. The idea is that the elf is a magical scout sent by Santa Claus to watch children and report back to Santa on their behavior. The elf is usually placed in a prominent location in the home, such as on a shelf or in a tree, where the children can see it. The children are expected to behave well so that the elf will report back to Santa that they are good and will get presents for Christmas.