Daycare Essentials Checklist: Must-Have Items for Your Toddler

Bridgette Tuquero
3 min readMay 28, 2024

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I am a mom of three with three little ones in daycare. Starting daycare is a significant milestone for both toddlers and parents. Ensuring your child has everything they need can ease the transition and make their daycare experience enjoyable and comfortable. I want to help other moms make the best decisions for themselves. I hope you find these resources helpful!

feeding

  • Munchkin non spill cups: Munchkin non-spill cups are a lifesaver for both parents and daycare providers. These cups prevent messes and help toddlers transition from bottles to regular cups.
  • Bentgo boxes: Bentgo boxes are perfect for packing a variety of foods in one container. These lunch boxes are compartmentalized, making it easy to include different food groups and keep meals interesting.
  • Bentgo lunch box: A Bentgo lunch box offers a compact and stylish solution for packing nutritious lunches. With its leak-proof design and built-in utensils, it’s perfect for daycare meals.
  • Sharpie: A Sharpie is essential for labeling all your child’s items. Make sure to mark your toddler’s name on snack containers, cups, and lunch boxes to avoid mix-ups at daycare.

clothing

  • extremely soft long sleeve outfit: Ensure your toddler is comfortable throughout the day with extremely soft long sleeve outfits. Look for materials that are gentle on the skin and easy to wash.
  • extremely soft short sleeve outfit: Weather can change quickly, so pack an extremely soft short sleeve outfit as well. These are great for warmer days and indoor activities.
  • parade organic tank rompers: Rompers are versatile and easy to put on, making them ideal for active toddlers. Choose rompers made from soft, breathable fabric to keep your child comfortable all day.
  • Native shoes: Native shoes are perfect for daycare. They are lightweight, easy to clean, and comfortable for little feet.

sleeping

  • Waterproof crib sheet: A waterproof crib sheet is essential for nap times at daycare. It protects the crib mattress from spills and accidents, ensuring a clean and hygienic sleeping environment.
  • Bamboo blankets: Bamboo blankets are soft, breathable, and perfect for nap time. They are gentle on sensitive skin and provide just the right amount of warmth without overheating.

other

  • Backpacks: A durable, child-sized backpack is perfect for carrying all your toddler’s essentials. Look for backpacks with multiple compartments and adjustable straps for comfort.
  • Pacifier clips: Pacifier clips keep pacifiers clean and within reach. They prevent pacifiers from falling on the ground and getting lost, which can be a lifesaver at daycare.
  • Pacifiers: If your toddler uses a pacifier, make sure to pack an extra one just in case. Choose pacifiers that are orthodontic and made from safe, non-toxic materials.

Conclusion

Being well-prepared for daycare can make a big difference in your and your toddler’s day. This checklist of daycare essentials ensures that your child has everything they need for feeding, clothing, sleeping, and more. By investing in these items, you can provide comfort and convenience for your toddler and peace of mind for yourself.

Remember, the right essentials can make the daycare experience smoother and more enjoyable for everyone involved. Happy packing!

For additional resources, explore my guides on:

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Bridgette Tuquero

disciple, wife, mom, army veteran, tech startup ops leader, and assistant professor of military science at villanova