With Christmas just around the corner, mischievous little elves have started showing up in homes across the globe. It’s that time of year for the Elf on the Shelf tradition that many families cherish.

Nearly two decades old, Elf on the Shelf has become increasingly popular, especially as parents share their creative elf scenarios on social media—think elves caught in a blender or making a mess in the bathroom with shaving cream.

If you’re curious about this festive custom for the first time, here’s everything you need to know about Elf on the Shelf.

What’s the Background of Elf on the Shelf?

As narrated in the children’s book “The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition,” these 10-inch-tall Scout Elves make their appearance in homes to prepare for Christmas.

These Scout Elves have a special duty: to report on children’s behavior to Santa for his naughty and nice list. Each night, the elves return to the North Pole, and each morning they are discovered in a new location in the home.

Scout Elf Return Week takes place at the end of November each year, marking the time when these elves arrive. This year, the return week runs from November 24 to December 1. However, they can make an early return, but only with Santa’s approval.

Who Created Elf on the Shelf and When Did It Begin?

Elf on the Shelf was conceived by Carol Aebersold and her daughter Chanda Bell. The duo published “The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition” themselves in 2005. The original book came with an elf doll, which is available in various styles to reflect diversity.

The tradition caught significant attention in 2007 when actress Jennifer Garner was seen carrying the book kit, according to The Lumistella Company, the organization behind Elf on the Shelf. Soon after, it was featured on NBC’s “Today” show.

In 2012, the elf made its first balloon appearance at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

However, a significant factor in the popularity of Elf on the Shelf is social media, where parents display their imaginative and fun elf antics.

Today, The Lumistella Company has a variety of Elf on the Shelf merchandise. It has also inspired numerous animated films, including Netflix’s “The Elf on the Shelf: An Elf’s Story.”

How Does Elf on the Shelf Work?

1. Adopt an official Scout Elf
2. Read “The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition” to grasp the rules and the story
3. Choose a name for your Scout Elf

There are also some important rules to keep in mind:

• Once a Scout Elf is adopted, kids shouldn’t touch it, as doing so may cause it to lose its magic. Parents can touch the elf if absolutely necessary.
• Scout Elves don’t talk, but they do listen well. Kids are encouraged to share their secrets and holiday wishes with their elf.
• Scout Elves won’t be around all year; they will return to the North Pole on Christmas Eve to help Santa and the other elves get ready for the next Christmas.

Where are Elf on the Shelf Products Sold?

You can find Elf on the Shelf products in most major retailers, including Walmart, Target, Amazon, Kohl’s, CVS, Michaels, Bass Pro Shops, Barnes & Noble, and Macy’s.

To locate a store near you that stocks Elf on the Shelf items, visit elfontheshelf.com/elf-adoption-centers/.

Elf on the Shelf Inspiration

If you’re looking for creative ideas for how to make your Scout Elf’s morning appearances exciting, there are many online resources to explore:

• The Elf on the Shelf website (featuring elaborate set-ups, quick ideas, printable crafts, and recipes for the morning)
• Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest (search for #elfontheshelf)