This phrase is usually accompanied by a sore arm. I've moved around a lot, but in every place I have lived, this small tradition has existed. It seems to appeal to children and adults alike.

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chaosbreather: Both Fondue and myself are Brits, I don't know if the Americans have this tradition.

This is a very strange custom. If you do it to someone, they can't do it back to you. But, you have to do it before noon for it to count. Also, notice that it doesn't really rhyme very well.

I don't make the rules...

In Australia, this particular activity is called 'A Pinch and a Punch for the First of the Month'. I happen to like this version better, as it is more poetic than the crude American version.

The victim piched and punched can then respond with 'A kick and a flick for being so quick!' also with Australian rules.