CHRISTMAS is just weeks away which means, Elf on the Shelf is about to kick off.

Here's what we know about Santa's little helper and how you can get your hands on one too.

What is Elf on the Shelf?

Elf on the Shelf is a toy which is sent by Father Christmas to watch over little children and make sure they're behaving properly over the festive period.

Parents are supposed to move the puppet around the house each day to create the illusion that he is popping up somewhere new and always reporting back to Santa.

The Elf on the Shelf tradition originated in the States, where the arrival - and movement - of the small Christmas dolls are a big topic of conversation.

Where can you buy an Elf on the Shelf in the UK?

Elf on the Shelf has it's own official website, where elves can be purchased from £29.95 including the accompanying book.

The Elf on the Shelf is currently available from Amazon for a price of £22.95 plus free delivery in the UK.

Boots are selling it for £22, but it's sure to sell out fast.

Elves are available in male, female, light and dark skin designs.

There are also non-original versions named 'Elves Behaving Badly', which look similar but come at a cheaper price, at just £3.99 from Amazon, and £4 from The Works.

They sell in a pack of two for only £9.95 on Amazon.

What are first night ideas for Elf on the Shelf?

There are plenty of scenes you can create for the elf...

• Create a "welcome back" scene for the elf, with sweets
• Place it by a sign saying "It's time to decorate the tree" or by an advent calendar
• Place the elf by some marshmallows for toasting on the fire or putting in hot chocolate
• Make the elf into an upside down Spiderman using thread
• Create a message from the elf using post-it notes on the wall

What can you do for an Elf on the Shelf arrival poem?

Many parents create their own poems, tailored to their kids, but there are some available online.

One from website Baby Moo's, can be adapted for most families....

Christmas time is nearly here, so I have come to stay with you and spread my festive cheer. 

I'm here to listen and when you're fast asleep I'll fly to the North Pole and tell Santa what he has been missing. 

Before you wake I'll run and hide, it'll be your job to find me so keep your eyes wide. 

My magic happens when you have been good, so be on your best behaviour as you should. 

Please don't touch me or my magic may flee. 

For now I need a name, what will you call me?

What are the top Elf on the Shelf names?

Once you have your elf, your family can give it a name.

While you are free to call it whatever you please, the official website released their top names.

These include:

• Buddy
• Snowflake
• Elfie
• Jingle
• Jingles
• Sparkle
• Jack
• Holly
• Chippy
• Charlie

What does Elf on the Shelf come with?

Elves purchased from the official website can be officially registered, meaning you will receive an adoption certificate, a letter from Santa and weekly ideas for your elf.

A new kit also allows children to contact Father Christmas directly.

The £24.99 Scout Elf Express Delivers Letters to Santa lets children write a note to Santa, then magically shrinks them to elf-size so they can be attached to their elf and taken to the North Pole that night.

Where did Elf on the Shelf originate from?

The Elf on the Shelf was originally a book character in 2004, the story remains the same that he was sent to "scout" out whether your children were being "naughty or nice".

The book, which was initially released in the US, was written by Carol Aebersold and daughter Chanda Bell and it commemorates their own family tradition of an elf coming over to watch them during Christmas time,

Over the years, the book has grown in popularity both in the US and the UK and has now become a viral tradition for a lot of families and you can buy your own Elf on the Shelf merchandise.

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