Get Daycare Ready: Gear Guide

Essential Daycare Checklist

Every toddler will have different personalities and needs, so each daycare bag will look slightly different. However, there are just some items that everyone needs! 

From extra clothes to their favorite plush toy, here are daycare essentials for every little one:

• Extra clothes for your kids

• Water bottles or sippy cups for hydration

• Healthy lunch and snacks

• Extra nappies

• Sun protection

• Comfort items, such as a plushie or small blanket

• A small umbrella or raincoat 

• A baby bottle, for toddlers who still drink formula

Surviving Daycare for the First Timers

The first day of school is always a little challenging, even more so if it’s your toddler’s first time in daycare. Surviving daycare becomes easier if you explain daycare and what happens to your little one. Make the experience much easier for both of you by setting expectations, establishing a routine, and helping your bub regulate their clinginess and emotions.

Some tips for surviving daycare when you have a clingy toddler include:

Explaining “school” and “daycare” to your little one

The concept of daycare and school can be daunting to your bub, especially if it’s their first time separating from you. Talking to your toddler about school–what it is and what to expect–will help them feel less scared of daycare

Setting a goodbye routine

Saying goodbye on the first day is an emotional experience for both you and your little one. Avoid making goodbyes a negative experience and set a happy tone to help them look forward to daycare. While it’s absolutely okay to shed a tear or two on your baby’s first day, avoid bawling your eyes out in front of them as it may send a different message!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which clothes do I pack for daycare?

When planning what clothes to pack for daycare, remember: comfort is key! A fussy toddler is a distressed toddler. Since daycare might already be a new experience for them, it’s best to keep everything else comfortable.

Choose clothing that allows them to relax and move freely. Additionally, make sure to check the weather and pack appropriately. A good rule of thumb is to pack and dress in layers. For example, a comfortable tshirt can be a good base for most days. From there, you can add on layers, such as a cosy sweater or jacket for colder days.

What snacks and food should I pack for my child?

The foods you pack will be dependent on your little one’s schedule. Most toddlers will eat lunch and snacks while in daycare, so having convenient yet healthy options are your best choices. You can opt for a delicious and filling meal, like a sandwich, for lunch and some tasty finger foods, like crackers or fruit slices, for snacks.

Make sure to have a functional lunch box for daycare so you can easily store their meals and drinks in safe food containers and BPA-free water bottles!

How many nappies should I pack for a day in daycare?

When it comes to nappies, it’s always better to have extras just in case. Generally, it’s good practice to pack 8-10 disposable nappies with your little one for a day in daycare. Overall, the number of nappies you need will depend on your bub’s age, potty training, and overall bladder control.

How do you organise and label your child’s items for daycare?

It’s easy to lose stuff in a daycare filled with toddler stuff and items, so knowing how to label daycare items for your little one is necessary.

First, make sure to have a dependable daycare backpack where you can keep your toddler’s items. The bag should be big enough to contain your little one’s daycare essentials without being too heavy. Label your bag with a tag so it doesn’t get lost.

Additionally, label your baby bottles and clothing. It’s easy to lose small items or items that will be constantly used. You can use a label maker or a non-toxic marker to label these items easily.

What should I do if my child has specific medical needs?

If your child has a medical condition, then add their medicine or emergency supplies in their daycare bag. For instance, children with asthma usually have an inhaler on hand. Communicating with their caregiver or teacher is also mandatory, so they know what to do should something happen. Lastly, make sure to give your contact to their daycare so they can easily reach you in case of emergencies.