Story Of The Elf On The Shelf At Christmas
The Elf on the Shelf has become a beloved Christmas tradition in many households across the United States. The story of the Elf on the Shelf is a heartwarming tale that has captured the hearts of children and adults alike. This article will delve into the history and origin of the Elf on the Shelf, as well as provide tips and ideas for incorporating this tradition into your own family's Christmas celebrations.
Origin of the Elf on the Shelf
The Elf on the Shelf tradition originated from a children's book of the same name, written by Carol Aebersold and her daughter, Chanda Bell. The book tells the story of a scout elf who is sent by Santa Claus to watch over children and report back on their behavior leading up to Christmas Day.
The idea for the book came about in the early 2000s when Aebersold and Bell were reminiscing about their childhood and the magical Christmases they experienced. They wanted to create a new Christmas tradition that would capture the magic and innocence of the holiday season and inspire children to be on their best behavior.
The Elf on the Shelf book was first self-published by the authors in 2005, and it quickly became a bestseller. In 2011, the book was picked up by a major publishing company, and the Elf on the Shelf tradition became a national phenomenon.
How the Elf on the Shelf Tradition Works
The Elf on the Shelf tradition typically starts on December 1st, when the scout elf arrives at the family's home. The elf is sent by Santa Claus to watch over the children and report back to him each night. Each morning, the elf is found in a new location in the house, often in a mischievous or playful position.
Children are encouraged to be on their best behavior while the elf is watching, as the elf reports back to Santa each night. The elf also brings small gifts or treats for the children throughout the month of December, leading up to Christmas Day.
On Christmas Eve, the elf returns to the North Pole with Santa Claus and the other elves. The tradition is meant to inspire children to believe in the magic of Christmas and to encourage good behavior leading up to the holiday.
How to Incorporate the Elf on the Shelf Tradition Into Your Family's Christmas
If you're interested in incorporating the Elf on the Shelf tradition into your family's Christmas celebrations, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you'll need to purchase the Elf on the Shelf book and accompanying scout elf doll. These can be found in most major retailers during the Christmas season.
Next, you'll need to come up with creative and fun ways to move the elf each night. Some popular ideas include having the elf make snow angels in flour, write messages on the bathroom mirror with toothpaste, or create a zip line across the living room.
It's also important to establish the rules of the Elf on the Shelf tradition with your children. Let them know that the elf is watching and reporting back to Santa each night, and encourage good behavior throughout the month of December.
Conclusion
The Elf on the Shelf tradition has become a beloved Christmas tradition in many households across the United States. The heartwarming story of a scout elf watching over children and reporting back to Santa has captured the hearts of both children and adults alike. If you're interested in incorporating this tradition into your own family's Christmas celebrations, be sure to pick up the Elf on the Shelf book and accompanying doll and come up with creative and fun ways to move the elf each night. Remember to encourage good behavior throughout the month of December and enjoy the magic and wonder of the holiday season!