I really like the story and the concept of the elf watching over them to see that they are good girls and boys. My kids also like waking up to try and find where the elf is hiding. However, at age 1 and 3 they screamed to hold the elf and I let them. So, they take turns holding the elf while I read the story. I see no point to adhere to that part of the story where the elf loses his magic if he is touched. My kids love taking turns playing with him like he is their little friend. However, they know that he will hide at night and that they must find him.