when do you start the elf on a shelf

The Elf on the Shelf tradition begins on December 1st each year. On that day, I'm responsible for setting up the Elf doll in a child's home, where I'll watch over them throughout the Christmas season. I report back to Santa each night about the child's behavior and make sure to stay out of sight during the day. When Christmas Eve arrives, I return to the North Pole with Santa to prepare for his big night of deliveries.