What to Pack for Daycare 2026

Packing for daycare can feel overwhelming. Having a comprehensive checklist ensures your child has everything they need while keeping mornings organized.

Daily Essentials

Every Day Items

Always pack:

• Completed daily sheet
• Diaper bag (if applicable)
• Change of clothes
• Any medications
• Communication notebook

Weather-Appropriate

Based on weather:

• Jacket or coat
• Hat
• Sunscreen (with authorization)
• Boots or appropriate shoes
• Layers

Comfort Items

If allowed:

• Lovey or stuffed animal
• Blanket
• Pacifier
• Sleep aids
• Familiar item

Age-Specific Needs

Infant Checklist

Daily needs:

• [ ] Diapers (6-8)
• [ ] Wipes
• [ ] Diaper cream
• [ ] Bottles
• [ ] Formula or breastmilk
• [ ] Burp cloths
• [ ] Change of clothes (2-3)
• [ ] Blanket for nap
• [ ] Pacifier

Toddler Checklist

Daily needs:

• [ ] Diapers or pull-ups
• [ ] Wipes
• [ ] Change of clothes (2)
• [ ] Snacks if provided
• [ ] Sippy cup
• [ ] Comfort item
• [ ] Sunscreen if needed

Preschool Checklist

Daily needs:

• [ ] Change of clothes
• [ ] Extra underwear
• [ ] Water bottle
• [ ] Rest items (blanket, pillow)
• [ ] Comfort item if allowed
• [ ] Weather gear

Diapering Supplies

What to Provide

If program requires:

• Diapers (brand specified?)
• Wipes
• Diaper cream (with authorization)
• Plastic bags
• Changing pad if needed

Quantities

Keep stocked:

• Week's worth of diapers
• Pack of wipes
• Replenish as needed
• Check daily
• Backup supplies

Feeding Supplies

For Bottle-Fed Babies

Bring:

• Bottles (number per day)
• Formula (premixed or powder)
• Bottle labels
• Storage bags if pumping
• Feeding instructions

For Breastfed Babies

Need:

• Labeled breastmilk
• Bottles
• Storage bags
• Date and quantity
• Feeding schedule

For Older Children

May need:

• Lunch (if not provided)
• Snacks
• Water bottle
• Special dietary items
• Utensils if needed

Sleep Items

For Nappers

May include:

• Blanket
• Small pillow
• Sheet (for cot)
• Comfort item
• Sleep sack

Program Requirements

Check:

• What they provide
• What you provide
• Size limitations
• Washing schedule
• Labeling requirements

Extra Clothes

What to Pack

Include:

• Full outfit (top, bottom, socks)
• Underwear if applicable
• Weather-appropriate
• Seasonal updates
• Easy-on clothing

Quantities

Typically:

• 2-3 changes for infants
• 1-2 changes for toddlers
• 1 change for preschoolers
• Replenish when used
• Seasonal rotation

Types of Clothes

Best choices:

• Easy on/off
• Comfortable
• Okay to get messy
• Weather appropriate
• Not precious items

Weather Gear

Cold Weather

Items:

• Coat/jacket
• Hat
• Gloves/mittens
• Snow pants
• Warm boots

Hot Weather

Items:

• Sunhat
• Sunscreen
• Light clothing
• Water bottle
• Swim items if needed

Rainy Days

Items:

• Rain jacket
• Rain boots
• Extra socks
• Umbrella (older kids)
• Change of clothes

Organization Tips

Bag System

Consider:

• Dedicated daycare bag
• Easy to grab
• Regular spot at home
• Easy to check
• Durable

Labeling Everything

Label:

• All clothing
• All supplies
• Bottles and containers
• Sleep items
• Everything!

Replenishment Routine

Create system:

• Nightly check
• Weekly restock
• Seasonal updates
• Communication check
• Stay ahead

Backup Supplies

Keep extras:

• At daycare (locker/cubby)
• In car
• Ready at home
• Emergency items
• Peace of mind

What Programs Usually Provide

Typically Provided

Programs often supply:

• Cribs/cots
• High chairs
• Toys
• Art supplies
• Basic materials

Usually Parent-Provided

Typically bring:

• Diapers and wipes
• Formula/breastmilk
• Extra clothes
• Sleep items
• Personal comfort items

Ask Your Program

Clarify:

• What's provided
• What you supply
• Specific brands required
• Where to store
• How to restock

What NOT to Pack

Avoid Bringing

Don't pack:

• Expensive items
• Easily lost treasures
• Choking hazards
• Weapons (toy or real)
• Inappropriate items

Check Program Rules

Restrictions may include:

• Food from home
• Certain toys
• Screens/electronics
• Specific items
• Safety concerns

Key Takeaways

Create system:

• Dedicated bag
• Checklist
• Routine
• Labeled items
• Backup supplies

Daily essentials:

• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Extra clothes
• Comfort items
• Communication items
• Whatever child needs

Age-specific:

• Infants need most
• Items decrease with age
• Adjust as child grows
• Follow program guidance
• Individual needs

Stay organized:

• Nightly prep
• Weekly restock
• Seasonal updates
• Label everything
• System maintenance

Remember:

• Programs vary
• Ask about requirements
• Check regularly
• Replenish promptly
• Keep it simple

Good organization makes daycare packing routine rather than stressful.

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