What to Pack in the Day-care Bag

Taking your baby or child to a day-care centre is an exciting time! Not only will they spend the day away from you, they will learn to listen to teachers, share and play with others, and develop different skills that will help shape who they are and how they learn! When spending a day away from home, regardless of your child’s age or stage, there are some important things you want to put in a daycare bag. Read on to learn some of the must have items to help your little one’s transition from home to daycare go smoothly.

Backpack

A backpack (or diaper bag) is just what you need to house all your child’s essential items for daycare. Sure to go back and forth each day, choose something that is comfortable to carry (padded straps), has a strong and durable design, is loaded with pockets and compartments, and is waterproof.

Source: Skip Hop Backpack/Diaper Bag

Drink Bottle

Whether your baby is on a bottle or your toddler is drinking from a sippy cup, one thing’s for certain-they need something to drink out of. Many centres love when parents send in refillable cups for tots because it’s not only environmentally friendly, but because each child has their own individual cup, cutting down on dishwashing and keeping germs at bay. Many facilities provide formula for your infant or baby, so a couple labelled bottles and nipples will ensure they have what they need to stay nourished and happy. If your facility doesn’t provide formula, then you’ll need to send your own, or send in your breast milk supply.

Source: Camelbak Eddy

Lunch Box

When you pack a lunch for your child, you know they are receiving something that they like to eat, and are more likely to eat it (hence, giving you peace of mind). This is why so many parents like to purchase and pack a lunch box. Opt for something that can easily fit in the daycare backpack or clip on its outer attachment to keep you hands-free during your drop off or pick up. You may also want to consider something that is large enough for storage containers and something that allows for a water bottle to slip into its side compartment.

Source: Pottery Barn Kids

Nappies

Nappies are a no-brainer, must pack item. While some facilities will provide some for you, many do not. Be sure to plan for one diaper per hour for younger babies, and 1 every two hours for older babies. On average, you can’t go wrong with packing 8-10 each day, or simply sending in a box of nappies to last your child throughout the weeks or month.

Source: Lovekins

Change of Outfit

Accidents happen! Whether you have an infant or a preschool aged child, a change of clothes is non-negotiable. From spit up to big blow outs, you don’t want to leave your little one cold, soiled, and uncomfortable. Packing a few extra onesies, tops, pants, socks, and/or underwear will help your child make it through the day even when accidents occur.

Source: Target

Outerwear

Oftentimes, daycares will get your little love out and about, regardless of the weather. This makes things a tad trickier for you in regard to dressing them for the day. That’s why it’s always best to be prepared for all the elements. Pack a hat, gloves, coat, scarf, and even ask the facility if you can keep a pair of waterproof boots in your child’s cubby so when it’s a rain or snow play day, they are prepared (and so are you!). 

Source: Target

Sunscreen

Most daycares prefer that you send in your own sunscreen for your child to use. This may be because children have a wide range of skincare needs, and a one size fits all approach to sunscreen won’t work from the daycare’s side. Simply slip some sunscreen into a pocket of your child's daycare bag and label it so they always have plenty of SPF protection!

Source: Banana Boat

Riff Raff Sleep Toy

Sending in a sleep toy will not only soothe your child to sleep, it will bring them some instant comfort from home. Riff Raff’s sleep toys are ideal to pack in a daycare bag because they give off white noise and are cute and cuddly. Sleep toys are transitional objects that help a baby go from the womb to the crib, and they help build trust and confidence to help babies sleep alone in their space. 

Sleeping Mat

When your baby is old enough to sleep out of a crib and on their own, many facilities ask that parents send in a sleep mat. These mats are only used by your child and can bring them comfort and satisfaction after a busy morning of learning and playing. Consider choosing something that is soft yet easy to clean, and that also has some kind of color, design, or character that brings your child joy!

Source: Homezy

Personalised Name Stickers

An essential item to pack in a daycare bag, personalized name stickers help ensure your child’s items don't get lost in the shuffle of the day, and are only used by them. If you don’t have a label maker, you can purchase special stickers, or simply pick up a pack of white file folder stickers and write your child's name on it with a permanent marker!

Source: Etsy

In conclusion, getting your baby or toddler ready for daycare isn’t an easy task. Consider some of the items on this list to ensure your little one has what they need and are prepared for their day away from home!