Why did it work? Because it’s not really about the elf. It’s about anticipation. It’s about the daily “Where is he now?” thrill for kids.
It’s also about parents getting to be mischievous. You get to stage a fake tea party or make the elf “ski” down the banister with a toothpick. It’s your own little performance art.
And yes, it’s totally ridiculous. You’re moving a plastic doll every night. But you’re also creating a memory. A weird, slightly stressful memory, but a memory nonetheless.
The Criticisms (Because Of Course)
Let’s be honest: some people hate the Elf. They say it’s creepy. They say it teaches kids that surveillance is normal. They say it’s a parental chore disguised as fun.
To which I say: lighten up. It’s a toy. If you don’t like it, don’t buy it. But for millions of families, it’s a beloved tradition.
Video: How a ‘beloved’ Christmas tradition started | CNN Business
Also, the Elf doesn’t have to be a tattletale. You can make him a silly friend. You control the narrative. It’s your house, your rules, your tiny red-shirted dictator.