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Punch buggy facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
1972 Volkswagen Beetle (15315845681)
A 1972 Volkswagen Beetle
2012 Volkswagen Beetle -- NHTSA 2
A 2012 Volkswagen Beetle

Punch buggy is a fun car game that kids often play during car rides. It's also known by names like punch bug, slug bug, or beetle bug. The main idea of the game is simple: when you see a Volkswagen Beetle car, you gently punch someone on the arm and shout "Punch buggy!" or "Slug bug!". People often add the color of the car, like "Red Punch Buggy!" Sometimes, players also say "No punch backs!" to make sure they don't get punched back right away.

How to Play Punch Buggy

Playing Punch Buggy is easy! Here are the basic steps:

  • Spot a Beetle: Keep your eyes open for any Volkswagen Beetle cars while you are traveling.
  • Shout the Name: As soon as you see one, be the first to shout "Punch buggy!" or "Slug bug!".
  • Gentle Punch: Give a light, friendly punch on the arm of another player. Remember, it's just a game, so be gentle!
  • Add the Color: Some players like to say the color of the car too, for example, "Blue Punch Buggy!"
  • No Punch Backs!: To make sure you don't get punched back right away, you can add "No punch backs!" after your call.

Different Ways to Play

Over time, people have come up with different rules for Punch Buggy. These variations make the game more interesting!

Classic vs. New Beetles

Some players only count the older, classic Volkswagen Beetles for the game. They might not count the newer models, like the ones made from 1998 to 2010 or from 2011 to 2019. However, since the older cars are becoming harder to find, many players now include the newer Beetles too. Some rules even say that if you spot a classic Beetle, it counts for two punches!

Punch Buggy in Brazil

In Brazil, there's a special version of the game, especially when a blue Volkswagen Beetle is seen. The first person to spot it has to shout 'Fusca Azul', which means 'Blue Beetle' in Portuguese. Other players quickly cross their arms over their chests and say 'Fechei' (which means 'I closed it'). If someone forgets to say 'Fechei' or doesn't do it in time, they might get a gentle punch on the arm as a playful punishment.

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Punch buggy Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.