The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition is an activity the entire family will enjoy. Based on the tradition* Carol Aebersold began with her family in the 1970s, this cleverly rhymed children's book explains that Santa knows who is naughty and/or nice because he sends a scout elf to every home. The elf watches the children's behavior and reports it back to Santa each night. By morning the elf returns to its assigned home and hides in a different location, allowing the children to play a delightful hide-and-seek game. Each product comes with its very own elf doll enabling others to begin this fun-filled Christmas tradition themselves.