where did elf on a shelf originate

The tradition of Elf on a Shelf began in the 1970s, when a family in New York began placing their elf figurine in different locations in their home each night as a playful way to keep track of the children's behavior. The children began to believe that the elf was reporting back to Santa on their behavior and quickly became fascinated with the idea of a magical elf in their home. Over time, this family tradition spread and eventually became a popular holiday tradition.