Are you searching for a fun and engaging game for your next gathering? Look no further than Pitty Pat, a traditional children’s game that has been enjoyed for generations and continues to bring laughter and excitement to people of all ages. This captivating game is not only easy to learn but also requires minimal equipment, making it an ideal choice for casual home play or lively parties.
To initiate a game of Pitty Pat, all you need is a flat playing surface and a small ball, such as a table tennis ball or a crumpled-up piece of paper. The game can be played with two or more individuals, making it suitable for small and large groups. Players sit or stand around the playing surface in a circle or around a table.
The game commences with one player placing the ball in the center of the playing surface. Players take turns patting the ball back and forth, aiming to keep it in the air and prevent it from dropping to the ground. As the game progresses, players can gradually increase the speed and difficulty by adding footwork and using different parts of their bodies to keep the ball afloat. The individual who successfully keeps the ball in the air the longest emerges as the victor.
Understanding the Basics of Pitty Pat
Pitty Pat, also known as “Pom Pom Pull Away”, is a classic hand-clapping game with a simple yet engaging rhythm. It involves two players clapping their hands in time to a set of verbal commands. The game can be played by people of all ages, making it a great option for both children and adults.
Clapping Patterns
The Pitty Pat game consists of four distinct clapping patterns, each with a specific set of hand movements:
- Pitty: Two claps with both hands.
- Pat: Two claps with alternating hands (right hand on top of left, then left hand on top of right).
- Pull: One clap between both hands, resembling the motion of pulling something apart.
- Away: Two claps with both hands, separating them outward.
Gameplay
The game begins with one player reciting the commands and the other player following along with the clapping.
| Command | Clapping Pattern |
|---|---|
| Pitty Pat | Pitty, Pat |
| Pull | Pull |
| Away | Away |
The goal is to perform the clapping patterns correctly and in sync with the commands. If a player makes a mistake, they take a “step back” by repeating the previous command.
Setting Up the Scoring System
The scoring system for Pitty Pat is straightforward but crucial for tracking progress and declaring the winner. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the scoring system:
1. Count by Tens: Players tally their points in increments of ten. For example, a player with 15 points would be counted as “fifteen tens.”
2. Scoring Hands: Each combination of cards played holds a specific point value. These values are as follows:
| Hand Combination | Points |
|---|---|
| Ace | 1 |
| 2 | 2 |
| 3 | 3 |
| 4 | 4 |
| 5 | 5 |
| 6 | 6 |
| 7 | 7 |
| 8 | 8 |
| 9 | 9 |
| 10 | 10 |
| Jack | 11 |
| Queen | 12 |
| King | 13 |
3. Running Total: As players take turns playing their cards, they add the points to their running total. The first player to reach or exceed 100 points wins the game.
4. Bouncers: When a player plays a card that matches the value of the card on the discard pile, they can “bounce” the other players and earn additional points. The number of points earned depends on the specific card played:
- Ace: 1 point
- King: 2 points
- Queen: 3 points
- Jack: 4 points
- 10: 5 points
- 9: 6 points
- 8: 7 points
- 7: 8 points
- 6: 9 points
- 5: 10 points
- 4: 11 points
- 3: 12 points
- 2: 13 points
Managing the Speed and Intensity
The key to a successful game of Pitty Pat lies in managing the speed and intensity of your movements. Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect balance:
1. Start Slowly
Begin the game at a relaxed pace, allowing your hands to move smoothly and rhythmically. Gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable with the game.
2. Maintain a Steady Beat
Keep your movements consistent, avoiding sudden bursts or lulls. A steady beat will help you maintain control and prevent mistakes.
3. Vary the Intensity
Add variety to the game by alternating between gentle pats and forceful slaps. This will keep the game interesting and challenging.
4. Listen to the Sound
Pay attention to the sound produced by your hands hitting the mat. A clear, resonant sound indicates a successful strike.
5. Practice Regularly
Like any skill, Pitty Pat takes time and practice to master. Set aside regular time to practice and improve your speed and intensity.
6. Find a Partner
Playing with a partner can help you stay motivated and improve your coordination. Challenge each other to increase the speed and intensity gradually.
7. Consider the Playing Surface
The surface you play on can affect the speed and intensity of your movements. A soft mat will absorb sound and provide a gentler experience, while a hard surface will create a louder, more intense sound.
| Surface | Speed | Intensity |
|---|---|---|
| Soft mat | Slower | Gentler |
| Hard surface | Faster | More intense |
How to Play Pitty Pat
Pitty Pat is a classic children’s game that is simple to learn and fun to play. It can be played with two or more people, and is a great way to improve hand-eye coordination and timing. Here’s how to play:
- Materials: A ball (any size will do)
- Instructions:
- Players stand or sit in a circle facing each other.
- One player starts by tossing the ball gently to another player.
- The receiver catches the ball and immediately tosses it back to the first player.
- Players continue tossing the ball back and forth, keeping it in the air as long as possible.
- If a player drops the ball, they are out of the game.
- The last player remaining in the circle wins.
You can add variations to the game to make it more challenging or fun. For example, you can try:
- Using a smaller or larger ball
- Tossing the ball over a greater distance
- Having players toss the ball with their non-dominant hand
- Adding obstacles to the playing area
Pitty Pat is a great game for all ages and skill levels. It’s a simple game to learn, but it can be challenging to master. So gather your friends or family and give it a try!
