RE: Ulog: That Elf Can't Live in my House Again This Year

My son was born in 2003. But, we never had the Elf-on-a-Shelf in our house either, and for some of the same reasons you listed – especially the snitch issue. I want my son to behave and do good because it's the right thing to do – not because he's afraid of someone telling on him or for some materialistic reward.

I also never lied to my son about the whole Santa tradition. As long as he believed, I didn't disabuse him of the notion. But, I made sure he knew that Santa began as St. Nicholas, and that we give gifts in honor of The Gifts of the Magi. I also explained that St. Nicholas was a lesson in selfless giving, as well as giving what the person wants or needs, rather than what you'd like to have or think the person should like because you do.

The whole elf thing is contrary to my determination to never lie to him. And, it kind of defeats the true meaning of Christmas and of giving.