where did the elf on a shelf originate

The Elf on the Shelf was created by Carol Aebersold, a mother of two, and her daughter Chanda Bell in 2005. The idea came from a mischievous elf that she would hide in her home during the holiday season. The elf, who she named "Scout," would report back to Santa Claus if the children had been naughty or nice. Aebersold decided to turn this idea into a book, and the story of the Elf on the Shelf was born. Today, the Elf on the Shelf is a popular Christmas tradition, with millions of families participating in the tradition worldwide.