NurseryRhymes.info
I Have Two Hands
Early 20th century 
Philippines Lyrics
I have two hands, the left and the right.
Hold them up high, so clean and bright.
Clap them softly, 1-2-3.
Clean little hands are good to see.
My face is bright, my teeth all white.
My dress is clean and all of me.
So dear playmates follow me
So that our mother will be happy.
Hold them up high, so clean and bright.
Clap them softly, 1-2-3.
Clean little hands are good to see.
My face is bright, my teeth all white.
My dress is clean and all of me.
So dear playmates follow me
So that our mother will be happy.
History and Meaning
Originating in the Philippines during the early 20th century, likely as part of the English-language public education system introduced under American administration, "I Have Two Hands" is a simple nursery rhyme designed for young learners.
Its verses served multiple educational purposes: teaching basic English vocabulary and identifying left and right hands, promoting essential personal hygiene ("so clean and bright," "teeth all white," "dress is clean"), and encouraging positive social conduct and respect for parental approval ("dear playmates follow me / So that our mother will be happy").