What's the story behind Elf on the Shelf? Everything to know about the holiday tradition

Christmas is less than one month away and silly, sneaky little elves are starting to appear in children's home. A holiday tradition for many families around the world, it is indeed Elf on the Shelf time.

Nearly 20 years old, Elf on the Shelf has gained traction in recent years as parents post extreme displays on social media − from elves getting stuck in the kitchen blender to making a mess in the bathroom with shaving cream.

If you're looking to explore the Christmas tradition for the first time, here's everything you need to know about Elf on the Shelf.

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What's the story behind Elf on the Shelf?

As told in the children's book, "The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition," 10-inch-tall elves, called Scout Elves, arrive in children's homes ahead of Christmas.

Scout Elves are on a mission to relay children's behavior back to Santa Claus for his naughty and nice list. Every night, the elves travel back to the North Pole and then in the morning, upon their return, land in a different spot than the nights before.

Toward the end of November each year is Scout Elf Return Week − when elves arrive to children's homes. This year's return week is Nov. 24 through Dec. 1. However, Scout Elves may return a bit early, but only with Santa's permission.

Who invented Elf on the Shelf and when did it get started?

Elf on the Shelf was invented by Carol Aebersold and her daughter Chanda Bell. The mother-daughter duo self-published "The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition" in 2005. The original book comes with an elf doll, available in several diverse options.

Elf on the Shelf gained widespread attention in 2007 when actress Jennifer Garner was spotted carrying the book kit, according to The Lumistella Company, which owns Elf on the Shelf. Shortly after, the book was discussed on NBC's "Today" show.

In 2012, the elf got off the shelf and made his first balloon appearance in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

But perhaps the leading reason why Elf on the Shelf got so popular is thanks to social media, with parents sharing their elaborate and humorous schemes online.

Today, The Lumistella Company offers various Elf on the Shelf merchandise. Several animated movies, including Netflix's "The Elf on the Shelf: An Elf's Story," have been inspired by the story of Scout Elves.

How does Elf on the Shelf work?

Of course, like any holiday tradition, families may put their own spin on Elf on the Shelf, but here are the encouraged steps:

1. Adopt an official Scout Elf

2. Read "The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition" to learn about the tradition and rules

3. Name the Scout Elf

There are a few rules worth learning, too:

• Once a Scout Elf has been adopted, children should not touch it, as this will cause the elf to lose its magic. However, parents may touch a Scout Elf if a situation is dire.

• Scout Elves cannot talk, but they are great listeners. Children are encouraged to share secrets and holiday wishes with their new friend.

• Scout Elves aren't year-round friends, as they must return to the North Pole on Christmas Eve to help Santa and the other elves prepare for next Christmas.

Where can you buy Elf on the Shelf?

Elf on the Shelf is available at most major retailers, including Walmart, Target, Amazon, Kohl's, CVS, Michaels, Bass Pro Shops, Barnes & Noble and Macy's.

To search a store near you that carries Elf on the Shelf, visit elfontheshelf.com/elf-adoption-centers/.

Elf on the Shelf ideas

If you're brainstorming creative ways to make your Scout Elf reappear in the morning, there are several online resources worth checking out for inspiration:

• The Elf on the Shelf website (elaborate and quick setups, printable crafts and recipes for the morning)

• Instagram, TikTok and Pinterest (search #elfontheshelf)

Greta Cross is a national trending reporter at USA TODAY. Follow her on X and Instagram @gretalcross. Story idea? Email her at gcross@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What is Elf on the Shelf? What to know about the holiday tradition