Staccia Minaccia can be found in print in the 1800's. The phrase "staccia minaccia" is used for the sound even though it literally means "sifted threat".

Notes

*"Bubù" means something scary like the bogeyman or a scarecrow (the scary kind of scarecrow that can be found in stories).

Game Instructions

This is a lap rhyme to play with a child on your lap facing you. On the last line the child goes back like they're falling (while you're holding them securely!).

Comments

There are many variations of this rhyme. You can share the version you know on Mama Lisa's World Blog and find other versions there as well.

Thanks and Acknowledgements

Many thanks to Sandra Gaudenzi and Emanuela Marsura for contributing this rhyme. Translated by Emanuela and Lisa.

Grazie mille!