Elf on the Shelf

Every family has traditions. But you can never have enough traditions. Well, if you are the daughter- or son-in-law coming into the family, you might think differently!
The Elf on the Shelf is a tradition Carol began with her family when her kids were little. The children were very curious how Santa could possibly be watching them along with all the other children of the world. Carol found an elf from her childhood and the story of how Santa watches all the little boys and girls easily unfolded.

At our home the elf would arrive around the holidays, usually at Thanksgiving. His sole responsibility was to watch my children's behavior and report it to "Santa" each night. The next morning after the children awoke, they discovered the elf had returned from the "North Pole" and was hiding in a different place. My children would race each other out of bed to try and be the first to spy him in his new position.

Carol pulls out the elf at Thanksgiving to kick off the holidays. Personally, I'll be keeping the elf out all year long. I've noticed as soon as I use the old line, "Remember Santa is watching you. If you continue to act like this at Target, he might not bring you presents," the kids are whipped into shape. While I understand this is a bit cruel and some parents are not as mean as I am, I do find out of desperation it works like a charm!

The website provides some advice and smart tips on how to use the elf. Plus there's even a few fun things to do for the kiddos. Check out your state to see which stores carry The Elf on the Shelf. It is only $24.95 for the Elf, the book, and a certificate adopting the Elf into your family. However this is also a clever idea for a school teacher. Every teacher could use an extra "hand" keeping the kids in line!

Please note: image above is copyrighted and is used with permission.