You Tell Us: Is Elf on a Shelf Festive or Creepy?

A few years ago, the "Elf on the Shelf" made its entrance into many American households. 

The elf doll and accompanying book have a simple premise: Santa sends an elf into homes to keep an eye on children before Christmas. Each night, the elf flies back to the North Pole to report on the child's behavior, and every morning, the child finds the elf waiting in a different location in the home.

Some people think the new tradition is endearing, as well as a useful way to encourage good behavior. But a recent Patch contributor said the elf strikes her as a bit, well, creepy.

We asked Bay Area Patch readers what they think on Facebook this week. Many agreed that the elf-as-watchdog is a little strange. Read what they had to say, then vote in our poll below.