The holiday season is a time of joy, magic, and cherished traditions. One such tradition that has captured the hearts of families around the world is the Elf on the Shelf. If you’re not familiar with it, don’t worry, I’m here to shed some light on this enchanting holiday tradition.

The Origin
Elf on the Shelf is a charming holiday tradition that started in 2005 in the United States, when Carol Aebersold and her daughter Chanda Bell self-published a book by the same name. It involves special elves sent by Santa Claus to watch over children and report back on their behaviour to the North Pole each night. The twist? The elf is known for its cheeky antics and ability to move around the house when no one is looking. This festive tradition has since spread widely to other parts of the world.

What age is the Complete Elf Kit suitable for?
Most parents start when their child is around 3 years of age. Some stop once their eldest child doesn’t believe in Santa and the magic of Christmas anymore, whereas others keep going, especially if they have younger children. Often the older child(ren) will help with the daily setups, to keep the magic alive for younger children.

How It Works
The concept is simple yet delightful. Here’s how it typically works:

1. Arrival: In the US, elves often arrive on Thanksgiving or the day after, whereas in other parts of the world, they usually arrive on December 1st.
2. Adoption: Families adopt their own elf. The adoption process often includes naming the elf, which can be a fun and creative activity for the children. This personalised touch makes the tradition even more special.
3. The Elf’s Mission: Children are told that their elf is Santa’s special helper and has been sent to their home to watch their behavior. The elf’s mission is to report back to Santa every night, helping him determine whether a child belongs on the naughty or nice list.
4. Nightly Adventures: Each night, after the kids are in bed, parents can have some fun by moving the elf to a new location in the house. This is where the magic happens! And some parents get incredibly creative.
5. Morning Surprises: The real excitement comes in the morning when children wake up to discover where the elf has landed. The joy and wonder on their faces are truly heartwarming, and make all of the panic at 11pm (when you remember to move it) worthwhile.
6. Rules: The official Elf on the Shelf book has a rule that your child(ren) is not allowed to touch your Elf/Elves. Personally, we think this is a silly rule. My son, who is 5 now, loved playing with his elves the last 3 years. It’s all part of the fun in our opinion, but if you wish to go by the official rules, that’s perfectly fine too.
7. Goodbye on Christmas Eve: On Christmas Eve, the elf’s mission is complete, and it returns to the North Pole with Santa. However, it promises to be back next year to continue its special duties.

Why Elf on the Shelf is so loved
Elf on the Shelf has become a beloved holiday tradition for several reasons:

1. Building Excitement: It adds an extra layer of excitement to the holiday season for children. The daily hunt for the elf keeps them engaged and looking forward to Christmas.
2. Encouraging Good Behavior: The idea that the elf is reporting to Santa encourages kids to be on their best behavior, which can be helpful for parents during the holiday season.
3. Creativity: Parents get to be creative with their elf’s nightly escapades. This creativity can be contagious and bring the whole family together.
4. Tradition and Bonding: Creating and sharing traditions is an important part of family life. Elf on the Shelf provides a wonderful opportunity for families to bond and create lasting memories.
5. Spreading Joy: The sheer delight and innocence that Elf on the Shelf brings to the holiday season are contagious. It’s hard not to be swept up in the magic of it all.

Critics
Some parents find the daily task of moving the elf to be a bit overwhelming, especially during a busy holiday season. Last-minute Pinterest panic and 11pm elf emergencies can be real! 

That’s where our 24-Day Complete Elf Kit comes in. We’ve done all the hard work for you. This Kit is your key to 24 days of pre-planned elf adventures! We’ve bundled it all up for you – from foolproof instructions to setup inspiration photos and all the necessary props (just grab a few common household items). Plus, if you’re feeling extra creative, feel free to put your personal twist on each night’s escapade and add your own unique accessories.

In Conclusion
Elf on the Shelf is a heartwarming holiday tradition that has captured the imaginations of children and adults alike. It’s a delightful way to infuse the holiday season with magic, wonder, and a touch of mischief. Whether you’re a devoted fan or just learning about it, the tradition is a beautiful reminder of the joy and togetherness that the holiday season can bring.

So, as you embark on your own Elf on the Shelf adventure, may your home be filled with laughter, excitement, and the magic of the season. Happy holidays, and may your Elf on the Shelf bring endless joy to your festive celebrations.