Tony Chestnut, or Toe Knee Chestnut, is a popular children’s song and action song often used as a fun activity to teach body parts and coordination.
As the song progresses, children touch or point to the corresponding body parts mentioned in each verse, which makes it interactive and engaging. Simple hand movements or gestures often accompany it to reinforce learning and coordination.
Tony Chestnut can be enjoyed by children in various settings, including schools, daycare centers, and at home.
While its exact origins are uncertain, it’s become a staple in children’s music and continues to be passed down through generations.
Lyrics for Tony Chestnut
Here are the lyrics to Tony Chestnut (Toe Knee Chest Nut)
Tony Chestnut knows I love you.
Tony knows. Tony knows.
Tony Chestnut knows I love you.
That’s what Tony knows.
Tony, Tony and his sister Eileen.
And Eileen loves Neil and Neil loves Pat.
But Pat still loves Bob.
And there’s Russell and Skip.
This song is silly, but it’s hip.
How it ends, just one man knows.
And guess what (what), it’s Tony Chestnut.
Actions for Tony Chestnut
| Rhyme | ACTIONS |
|---|---|
| Tony Chestnut knows I love you. | Point to your toes, knees, chest, head, nose, eyes, heart and to a friend. |
| Tony knows. Tony knows | Point to your toes, knees and nose. |
| Tony Chestnut knows I love you. | Point to your toes, knees, chest, head, nose, eyes, heart and to a friend. |
| That’s what Tony knows | Point to your toes, knees and nose. |
| Tony, Tony and his sister Eileen. | Point to your toes, knees, toes, knees then lean to the right. |
| And Eileen loves Neil and Neil loves Pat. | Lean to the right, kneel and pat your shoulders. |
| But Pat still loves Bob. | Pat your shoulders and bounce your head back and forth. |
| And there’s Russell and Skip | Standup, wiggle your legs then skip in place. |
| This song is silly, but it’s hip. | Make a silly face then stick out your right hip and point to it. |
| How it ends, just one man knows. | Turn and point to your bottom. |
| And guess what (what), it’s Tony Chestnut. | Hold your arms up in the air. Point to your toes, knees, chest and head. |