Even Jolly Ol' St. Nick needs a helping hand now and again.

While he sees you when you're sleeping and knows when you're awake, Santa Claus can't be everywhere, all the time. That's why he has an army of trusty elves to help determine who's been naughty or nice and you probably know them as Scout Elves .

But what's the story behind Elf on the Shelf?

Since first introduced in 2005, these red-suited figures have been become a fixture in homes worldwide come the holidays .

They often appear in late November or early December and can be found in various places around the house. At day's end, they fly back to the North Pole where they give Santa a detailed report on the day's activities.

Many parents embrace this magical holiday tradition and participate in arranging

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