Elf on the Shelf ??

So what do all you parents out there think about the Elf on the Shelf? I must have had my head barried in the sand forever because I just found out about this little guy after Christmas last year. I am a big one for holiday traditions and think this one would be really fun. Growing up we never had a little elf, but my mother did tell us that Santa assigned every family an elf. Our family elf's name is/was Sebastian. She would tell us that Sebastian watched over us all year, but definitely more as the holiday season grew near. Then Sebastian reported back our behavior to the big guy!! Basically the same concept as Elf on the Shelf except with the elf you have a visual reminder, and a fun holiday tradition of finding the elf when you wake up in the morning, or see where he moved when you get home from school etc.

Naturally, with it being so similar to our own family tradition I wanted to give it a try. My son is about two and a half now and think it would be a good time to start a tradition like that. So gearing up for the holidays (already, I know) I started to do some research on the topic just to find it is quite controversial!! Apparently there are some parents that really hate this tradition. I actually read a blog earlier today that made me really sad for the mom. I guess these parents are all up in arms because of the "overachieving parents" and how they position their elves... It is popular, I guess, to position your elves to do "naughty" things like draw funny faces on family pictures with a dry erase marker... Of course others are more extreme. Some make big messes... Which I understand is a pain because you are making the mess and then you have to turn around and clean it up. I guess the way I feel about it is if you want to do it.. do it. If not then don't.

I think each family can make it their own. One mom was talking about how she just moves its spot in the house, doesn't position him in any special way or make him do funny or naughty things. I think that is fine, it would still be fun for the children to find him in a different spot each day. Some may prefer to go about it in a more unique way and make the tradition more elaborate. Either way, I think if your family has fun with it then its a win! I know I am going to be labeled as one of those "overachieving parents" who drive everyone else crazy, and I'm personally fine with that! I tend to be more elaborate in my traditions, everyone always makes fun of me for my Easter bunny tracks and half eaten cookies from Santa etc. Its not for everyone, but I think that it is fun.


At the end of the day if you are doing what makes your family happy, its a good day! I look forward to making this a fun tradition with my son, but that's just me. What do you guys think? Real parents out there what are your thoughts on the topic?? Please feel free to share ideas and opinions and as always make it a great day! TGIF everyone!!