Pack the everyday basics
Choose items your child already knows and can use comfortably. Write your child’s name on clothing, cups, bottles, and anything that could be mixed up with another child’s belongings.
- Two complete changes of clothes
- Weather-appropriate coat, shoes, or sun hat
- Diapers, wipes, and diaper cream if needed
- A labeled bottle or cup if your provider requests one
- One permitted comfort item for rest time
Bring complete health and contact information
Before care begins, the provider needs current emergency contacts, immunization information, allergy details, and written instructions for any medication or special diet. Do not leave medicine loose in a child’s bag.
Tell the provider what makes your child feel safe
Share the small details: your child’s words for the bathroom, how they usually fall asleep, foods they avoid, what comforts them, and what a tired or overwhelmed moment looks like. These details matter more than a perfectly packed bag.