Elf on the Shelf is a holiday tradition that originated in the United States. Children place an elf on their shelf during the Christmas season, and the elf is said to watch over the child and report back to Santa Claus. The elf is often placed near the child's bed or on a shelf in their room. Some families have a tradition of moving the elf around the house every night, and children often wake up to find the elf in a new location each morning. Elf on the Shelf is a fun and magical way to get children excited about the holiday season.