One Potato, Two Potato
19th Century 
UK / USA Lyrics
One potato, two potato,
Three potato, four,
Five potato, six potato,
Seven potato, more!
How to play:
Children stand in a circle with fists held out. One child goes around tapping each fist on each word. The fist that is tapped on "more" is put behind the back. Continue until one fist remains - that child is "it" or wins!
Three potato, four,
Five potato, six potato,
Seven potato, more!
How to play:
Children stand in a circle with fists held out. One child goes around tapping each fist on each word. The fist that is tapped on "more" is put behind the back. Continue until one fist remains - that child is "it" or wins!
History and Meaning
"One Potato, Two Potato" is a traditional counting-out rhyme used by children to select who will be "it" in games.
Origins
The rhyme emerged in the 19th century in both Britain and America. Its exact origin is unclear, as such counting-out rhymes were typically passed orally among children without adult documentation.
How It's Played
The game is simple:
- Children stand in a circle with fists extended
- One child (the counter) goes around tapping each fist on each word
- The fist tapped on "more!" is put behind the back
- Play continues until one fist remains—that person is "it"
Meaning and Purpose
Counting-out rhymes like this one serve important social functions:
- They provide a fair, random way to select players
- They remove personal bias from selection
- They give all children an equal chance
- They teach counting in an engaging way
Cultural Significance
"One Potato, Two Potato" remains one of the most popular counting-out rhymes in English-speaking countries. Its simplicity and fairness have made it a playground staple for generations.
Variations
Many regional variations exist, with some extending the count higher or adding different endings. The basic structure remains consistent across versions.