The Elf on the Shelf - The Elf, the Myth and the Legend!

"The Elf on the Shelf" Origin:

"The Elf on the Shelf" originated from a family tradition that began in the 1970s. Carol Aebersold and her daughters, Chanda Bell and Christa Pitts, would hide an elf around their home during the Christmas season. This elf, named Fisbee, would "watch" the children and report back to Santa Claus each night. This charming tradition inspired Aebersold and her daughters to share the idea with the world.

First Came to Market:

In 2005, the family self-published the book "The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition," along with a small scout elf. The book, written by Carol Aebersold and Chanda Bell, tells the story of how Santa's scout elves visit children's homes to watch over them and report back to Santa each night. The set quickly gained popularity, as families embraced the idea of incorporating the elf into their own holiday traditions.

How It Works:

The Elf on the Shelf comes with a storybook and a small elf doll. The concept is simple: once a family adopts an elf and gives it a name, the elf receives its magical powers. Each night, the elf flies back to the North Pole to report on the children's behavior, returning to a different spot in the house by morning. Children are encouraged not to touch the elf, as it might lose its magic. Parents move the elf to a new location each night, creating the illusion that the elf is watching and reporting to Santa.

Legacy:

The Elf on the Shelf has become a beloved holiday tradition for many families around the world. Its popularity has led to a variety of spin-off products, including clothing, accessories, and even pets like the "Reindeer" and "Saint Bernard." The brand has expanded to include animated specials, such as "An Elf's Story: The Elf on the Shelf," which aired on television and became a holiday favorite.

One of the most notable milestones in the Elf on the Shelf's legacy was its inclusion in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. In 2012, the Elf on the Shelf made its debut as a giant balloon, cementing its status as a holiday icon. The balloon has continued to appear in the parade, delighting viewers and signaling the start of the holiday season.

How to Use It:

To incorporate the Elf on the Shelf into your holiday traditions, follow these simple steps:

  1. Adopt Your Elf: Purchase an Elf on the Shelf set, which includes the elf doll and storybook.  You can shop our full Elf on the Shelf collection here.
  2. Read the Story: Read the book to your children to explain the elf's role and its magical powers.
  3. Name Your Elf: Have your children choose a name for the elf, which activates its magic.
  4. Find a Spot: Place the elf in a spot where it can watch over the family. Each night, after the children are asleep, move the elf to a new location to create the illusion of nightly travels to the North Pole.
  5. Create Fun Scenarios: Get creative with the elf's nightly adventures. Set up fun or mischievous scenes to delight your children each morning.
  6. Follow the Rules: Remind your children not to touch the elf, as it might lose its magic. Encourage them to be on their best behavior, knowing the elf is watching and reporting to Santa.

The Elf on the Shelf has become more than just a holiday decoration; it's a cherished tradition that brings families together, adds excitement to the Christmas season, and creates lasting memories for children.

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