Ten Little Fingers
UK Lyrics
One little, two little, three little fingers,
Four little, five little, six little fingers,
Seven little, eight little, nine little fingers,
Ten little fingers on my hands.
Four little, five little, six little fingers,
Seven little, eight little, nine little fingers,
Ten little fingers on my hands.
History and Meaning
Based on the tune of 'Ten Little Indians' (or 'Michael Finnegan'), this version focuses on counting fingers, making it suitable for very young children. As a traditional children's counting song, it has been passed down through generations without a definitive single origin or author. Common variations of the lyrics involve counting fingers and toes, and sometimes other body parts, incorporating actions such as wiggling, clapping, opening, and shutting them. These fingerplays help children develop small motor skills, rhythm, and body awareness. It's distinct from the 1910s adult comic song by the same title and from Mem Fox's beloved 2008 children's picture book "Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes."