‘Elf on the Shelf’ comes to life at Spring Hill Mall

Nestled among the stacks of books in the children’s section the story of the “Elf on the Shelf” came to life Tuesday morning when Nicole Nelson of Barnes & Noble at Spring Hill Mall in West Dundee read to more than 20 children.

“We come almost every week,” said Amy Schram of Elgin, who brought her daughter Molly, 2½, to the program. Schram said that she felt the program was great and that attendance was getting better each week.

After the books were read, the children could show off their coloring skills by working on an ornament supplied by the store. They also each went home with an “Elf on the Shelf” coloring book.

The story and craft time took on a holiday theme this week, and will culminate with a pajama time reading of the “Polar Express” at 7 p.m. Friday. Cookies and hot chocolate will be served.

Nelson said between 10 and 20 children — and sometimes more — are on hand for each session.

“I am a parent myself, so I think about that aspect as well,” she said with regards to preparing for the program.

For more on programs at the store, check the website or call (847) 426-5614.