when did elf on the shelf become popular

The Elf on the Shelf was first introduced to the world in 2005 by author and mother of two, Carol Aebersold. It was initially created as a tool to help families instill the spirit of Christmas in their children by reminding them to behave, but it quickly gained popularity as a holiday tradition, becoming a popular cultural phenomenon. Over the years, the Elf on the Shelf has become a beloved character, with its own books, movies, and merchandise, and has captured the hearts of families everywhere.