Elf On The Shelf Ideas 2016: Story And History Of Santa’s Mischievous Helper

Not only do children have to worry about being naughty or nice for Santa Claus, they also have to make sure they behave for “Elf of the Shelf.” It’s a comparatively new trend that has taken the country by storm that is fun for adults and children.

“Elf on the Shelf” hit stores in 2005 as a children’s picture book written by Carol Aebersold and daughter Chanda Bell and illustrated by Coë Steinwart. Elves visit children from Thanksgiving until Christmas Eve. When the holiday is over, they return to the North Pole until the next season. The package also comes with a plush toy “scout” elf.

In the book, it’s explained to children that the scout elf’s job is to spy, so they better be good! “At the North Pole, Santa has many helpers who make the Christmas season special! His scout elves serve as his eyes and ears in homes around the world,” the official “Elf on the Shelf” website says.

Additionally, children are not permitted to touch the elf, or it loses its power. The book states: “There's only one rule that you have to follow, so I will come back and be here tomorrow: Please do not touch me. My magic might go, and Santa won't hear all I've seen or I know.”

Every night until Christmas, the elf will move around the house, normally getting into mischief. Whether its making “snow” angels in powdered sugar or leaving chocolate kiss “poops” in the toilet, Santa's helper is normally up to no good. He or she might even take a marshmallow bath in the sink.

Sometimes, parents might have a hard time thinking what kind of trouble the elf can get into. For that, check out the “Elf on the Shelf” Twitter page or app, which is available on Android and iOS phones. Tools and outfits can be purchased on the official “Elf on the Shelf” website.

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