Every year, at the official start of the holiday season, Elf on the Shelf arrives at millions of homes. You’re probably wondering if I’ll be sharing daily snapshots and the answer is a big fat No.

Now, I’m all for creating holiday magic, but this is just one tradition I can’t jump on the bandwagon for.

Parents spend countless hours planning out their Elf’s arrival and how they plan to move them around their house daily in the days leading up to Christmas. As of late, this has also come with a hefty price tag to help make the Elf’s daily trek back to their home more memorable and Instagram-ready.

What’s the purpose of Elf in the Shelf?

Simply put, Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas children’s book where the Elf is sent from the North Pole to monitor kids’ behavior. They then report back to Santa Claus nightly so he’ll know whether or not they deserve presents to open on Christmas Day. Kids are encouraged to be on their best behavior.

Related: 12 of the Best Christmas Books for Toddlers

Unlike those excited parents waiting for the kids to wake up on December 1 to experience the magic of the Elf’s arrival, this is one tradition I have not committed to participating in and I honestly never will.

Now before I get into my reasons why, this isn’t to bash any family that chooses to do so. Every family is entitled to determine what’s best for them. No need for anyone to get their panties in a bunch over what others choose to do or not do.

4 reasons why I don’t do Elf on the Shelf

We don’t celebrate Santa Claus (anymore)

First things first, our family no longer celebrates Santa Claus. Last year, we broke the heartbreaking news to our then 6-year-old daughter that Santa Claus wasn’t real. She was terrified at the thought of someone breaking into our house to bring presents, so we came clean. We educated her on where the idea of Santa stemmed from and how we can all be “Santa” for others. Now, we mainly focus on the Christian aspect of Christmas and the importance of giving rather than receiving.

It’s creepy

I can’t be the only one that thinks having a doll mysteriously show up to spy on kids is creepy. And let’s not forget that the Elf moves around the house each night for the kids to find in the morning. Just think about it. All day this Elf sits frozen in place only to come alive at night to creep around the house finding mischievous shenanigans to get into. And with just one touch, the Elf’s magic is gone forever. Terrifying!

It’s exhausting

As moms, we’re often pressured by society and social media to go all in on holiday trends. While I may be creative and love dabbling in projects to get my creative juices flowing, the thought of creating daily Elf displays on top of all the other Christmas activities has me exhausted. Doing laundry, packing lunches, and cooking dinner daily is enough!

I just don’t get it

I know. I know. “You’re thinking about it too much. It’s such a fun experience for the kids.” This is a statement I’ve read in so many mom groups, but I just can’t get with it. This tradition may be funny and cute, but I don’t get why I should persuade my kids to “be good” in order to experience the magic of Christmas. There are so many other methods to reinforce good behavior without empty threats or that don’t revolve around receiving gifts.

Do you do Elf on the Shelf in your home?

Of course, you probably do. I’m sure I’m one of the only moms left not participating.

If you’re like me and not participating in the Christmas trend, don’t feel bad. Feel empowered to say No and adopt other holiday traditions instead.

Related: The Ultimate Family Holiday Bucket List

I’m all for creating memories with my family, as well as starting new family traditions, but some things aren’t for everyone. And Elf on the Shelf is not it for us.