Today, I showed Squeaks how I trim my fingernails. Squeaks was curious because he doesn’t have nails. Just like our hair, our fingernails and toenails are always growing. We trim them to keep them from getting too long. When they are the right length, they can be very useful!
Nails start growing at the base, right under a thin piece of skin called the cuticle. As they grow, they get longer and eventually extend past the nail bed, which is the pink part under your nail. Nails grow very slowly, so you might not notice them growing every day, but they do! When they get too long, I trim them to keep them short and neat.
Nails are like the claws of other animals. Many animals, like dogs, cats, squirrels, and bears, have claws made of something called keratin. This is the same material that makes up hair, fur, feathers, and horns. Keratin is very hard, making nails and claws great tools.
For example, a squirrel uses its claws to scratch, climb trees, grab food, or protect itself. Humans use their nails in similar ways. I use my nails to peel stickers off bananas or to open things. Nails are also important for protecting our fingers. They sit on top of our fingers and help keep them safe from bumps and scratches.
Toenails protect our toes just like fingernails protect our fingers. But as they protect us, they wear down a little bit each time we use them. That’s why nails keep growing. However, they often grow faster than we wear them down, so we need to trim them to keep them healthy and strong.
Nails can also show if our body is healthy. Sometimes, germs can change the color or shape of our nails. A doctor might look at your nails to see if you are healthy or if you might be sick.
So, what do you use your nails for? Do you think they grow fast or slow? If you want to learn more fun things with Squeaks and me, make sure to subscribe to our channel. See you next time!
Nail Growth Observation: Start a nail growth diary! Measure your fingernails once a week using a ruler or a piece of string. Record the length in a notebook and draw a picture of your nails each week. After a month, look back at your drawings and measurements. Discuss with a parent or teacher: How much did your nails grow? Did they grow faster or slower than you expected?
Animal Claws Exploration: Find pictures of different animals with claws, like cats, dogs, or squirrels. Compare their claws to your nails. What are some similarities and differences? Try using modeling clay to make your own animal claws. Think about how these animals use their claws and discuss how you use your nails in similar ways.
Nail Care Practice: Set up a mini nail care station at home. With the help of an adult, practice trimming your nails safely. Use a magnifying glass to look closely at your nails and the cuticle. Talk about why it’s important to keep nails clean and trimmed. Can you think of other ways to take care of your nails and keep them healthy?
