What is Elf on the Shelf?

Have you been asking yourself, What is Elf on the Shelf? This post is all about answering your questions about this goofy elf tradition that is focused on keeping kids in order during the holidays. Everyone loves adding something new to their family holiday traditions, and an Elf on the Shelf is a perfect option this year!

A few years ago, we introduced our own Elf on the Shelf, George Twinkle. Each year, he comes out as we prepare for the holiday season and has fun putting random notes, messages, and planning shenanigans around the house. The goal of the Elf is to show the kids that Santa is watching their every move leading up to Christmas Day.

If your children love Santa Claus, this is a perfect addition to your holiday traditions. Bringing an Elf on the Shelf into the mix does take a commitment from you, but it is so worth it to see the smiles and hear the laughter from your children each morning.

What is Elf on the Shelf Tradition?

Year after year, children and adults alike are baffled by the mystery of how Santa really knows who’s been naughty or nice. After much urging by the elves and Mrs. Claus, Santa has allowed his biggest secret to be revealed in The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition. At the start of each Christmas season, the elf appears to serve as Santa’s eyes and ears, traveling back to the North Pole each and every night to make a detailed report of the day’s activities. This keepsake gift set includes a light skin, blue eyed boy North Pole pixie scout elf and a hardbound watercolor picture book. Children can register their elf online to receive an official adoption certificate and a special letter from Santa.

How to begin with your Elf on the Shelf

To get started, you have to begin by picking out your own Elf on the Shelf. We can recommend going on Amazon to pick out the color and style you want here. Next, you’ll want to check out our tips for How to Introduce Elf on the Shelf and then make sure to grab our Elf on the Shelf Letter Printable. Last but not least, you get to pick a great name! We’ve even added our list of 110 Elf on the Shelf Names!

More Elf on the Shelf Ideas

This year, since you have answered the question of what is Elf on the Shelf, you’ll have fun going through all of these great ideas! Grab a few of your favorite, and plan out a fun-filled Elf calendar.

More Family Holiday Traditions

Don’t forget to check out all of our favorite Christmas tips including our complete Christmas Recipe Index. Along with great food and fun with your Elf on the Shelf with Santa coming to town, you’ll always want to take advantage of a phone call from Santa. You can get Santa’s phone number and learn more about how to contact him in our post. This is a great way to celebrate with the kids!