where did the elf on the shelf come from

The Elf on the Shelf is a popular Christmas tradition that began in the early 2000s. It was created by Carol Aebersold and her daughter Chanda Bell, who wanted to create a new Christmas tradition that would bring families together and inspire creativity and imagination. The Elf on the Shelf is based on a mischievous little elf who comes to visit every family during the holiday season, watching children's behavior and reporting back to Santa Claus. The tradition has become popular worldwide, with many families adopting their own Elf on the Shelf.