Giant Microbes - Skin Cell

Recommended for ages 3 and up. WARNING: CHOKING HAZARD - Small parts, not suitable for kids under 3. Your skin is more than just a surface; it's your body's largest organ and first shield against the outside world. The skin has three layers. The top layer, the epidermis, is mainly made of tough keratinocyte cells. These cells protect you from pathogens and blunt objects and stop important water and nutrients from leaving your body. New cells are born near blood vessels. Over a month, older cells are pushed away from the blood supply by new ones until they die and fall off. You lose tens of thousands of skin cells every minute - almost 10 pounds a year! The epidermis also has melanocyte cells that give your skin its color. Darker skin offers more protection from the sun's UV rays, while lighter skin can make more bone - strengthening Vitamin D in less sunlight. A suntan is your body's way to limit sun exposure. Under the epidermis, the dermis has blood vessels that help control body temperature and nerves that let you feel heat and touch. It also supports oil and sweat glands that keep your skin lubricated and waterproof and holds your hair follicles. Finally, a thin layer of subcutaneous fat provides insulation and stores food. This set includes one Skin Cell plush, about 5 inches long.

Using your Skin Cell plush is simple and fun. You can play with it on its own, or use it as a teaching tool to learn about the skin. For kids, it can be a great toy to spark their interest in the human body. When handling the plush, be careful as it has small parts, so keep it away from children under 3 to avoid choking hazards. To maintain the plush, you can gently spot - clean it with a damp cloth. Avoid submerging it in water to prevent damage. Store it in a dry place when not in use to keep it in good condition.