Who Stole The Cookie From The Cookie Jar

Have you ever heard the children’s game and chant, "Who Stole the Cookie from the Cookie Jar?" It’s been popular in classrooms and homes around the world for generations, and is so simple anyone can enjoy it.

The game starts with all the players sitting around the cookie jar, with their hands behind them, looking around suspiciously. One player, the designated thief, mentally or physically (by taking a figurative or real step) chooses another player to "steal" the imaginary cookie from the jar. Then, the chosen victim points their finger at another player and asks, "Who Stole the Cookie from the Cookie Jar?" All the players then chant together in unison, "/TheNameOfTheGuiltyParty/ Stole the Cookie from the Cookie Jar!"

Depending on the version being played, the players can continue pointing fingers at one another, with the guilty party being selected randomly each time. Some gamers have added a "punishment" step, where the accused is expected to perform a task, such as singing a song, or being excluded during the game.

No matter the rules, this classic children’s game is a fun way to get kids talking and laughing. After all, pointing fingers and mutual suspicion make this game as much an exercise in critical thinking as silly fun.

So long as participants of all ages understand there isn’t a real cookie, this game is a great way to get together and enjoy one another’s company. So, who will be the first one to ask? You know you want to—Who Stole the Cookie from the Cookie Jar?