Essentials for Starting Daycare
Hello!
So...you're about to enter the universe of daycare. What a time filled with literally one-million emotions.
It is perfectly normal and oh-so-expected for you to feel nervous or apprehensive about sending your child to daycare. So let's talk about the things you need, so that you can be confident that your baby or toddler have everything they need, to thrive during their visit to daycare.
Important note: Every daycare will operate slightly differently. Some will require you to send all nappies, food etc. that your child will require for the day. Others will provide practically everything! It's best to contact your specific daycare (or ask them when you're doing your tour) before your child starts.
Check this out next: 'Help! How do I prepare for naps at daycare?!'
First off - let's chat bags! Aim for a bright colour (so you can easily find it), with a pocket at the front and on both sides. This will ensure you can easily fit their baby bottles, sippy cup or drink bottle, and extra bits and pieces such as underwear and socks.
Here are some things you might need to pack in their bag:
Baby/Young Toddler (6 weeks - 18 months)
- 2 x Singlets
- 1 x Hat (broad-brimmed - very important as most daycare facilities won't accept caps as they do not provide enough protection)
- 1 x Onesie
- 1 x Beanie (for winter)
- 1 x Jumper
- Sleep suit and any sleep aids (eg. dummy)
- Any bottles of expressed milk or formula
- Sippy cup with water (6+ months)
- 2 x Pairs of socks
- Sunscreen (only if your child requires a specific brand)
Toddler (18 months+)
- 1 x Hat (broad-brimmed - very important as most daycare facilities won't accept caps as they do not provide enough protection)
- 1 x T-shirt
- 1 x Long-sleeved top
- 1 x Pair of Pants
- 1 x Jumper
- 1 x Beanie (for winter)
- Sleep suit and any sleep aids (eg. dummy, comforter toy)
- Drink bottle with water
- 2 x Pairs of socks
- 2 x Pairs of underwear
- Sunscreen (only if your child requires a specific brand)
Final tip: Make sure you put a label on everything! It's incredible how often clothing and bottles can disappear, so put a label on and save yourself the hassle of missing items!
Want to save time scrolling through endless options? Click here for the items we use and LOVE for both of my girls when they go to daycare!