Polly Put the Kettle On (Nursery Rhyme)

Summary

This nursery rhyme is a simple and playful exchange between two characters named Polly and Sukey, focusing on the ritual of making tea. Polly is asked to put the kettle on as a prelude to gathering for tea with others, suggesting an anticipation of social interaction and enjoyment. However, Sukey is then instructed to take the kettle off, as the anticipated guests have all departed. The rhyme captures the cyclical and sometimes abrupt nature of social visits, making it relatable to young children by using repetitive and rhythmic language. Its simplicity makes it easy for children to remember, and it can be used to teach basic concepts of hospitality and the dynamics of social gatherings.

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Polly put the kettle on,
Polly put the kettle on,
Polly put the kettle on,
We’ll all have tea.
Sukey take it off again,
Sukey take it off again,
Sukey take it off again,
They’ve all gone away.