What to Pack for Daycare: Essential Packing List

Returning to the office as a new parent can be an overwhelming transition. If you have decided to send your little one to daycare, you may be feeling waves of emotions. You may also have plenty of questions as you prepare for your son or daughter's first day.

You’re all signed up and have decided when to start daycare, but what do you pack? Are there rules about what to bring?

Definitely consult with your daycare provider first, as they probably have a list of items that they provide and items that you need to supply. In the meantime, start prepping your baby’s bag for a successful first day. Follow our daycare packing list for tips on what to pack for daycare.

First, it’s time to figure out how to dress your baby for daycare. When dressing your little one for daycare (and packing extra clothes for those unexpected messes), choose soft, lightweight fabrics that will keep them snug all day. Babies can’t regulate their body temperatures, so a breathable fabric helps prevent overheating and heat rashes from moisture and bacteria buildup.¹

Viscose from bamboo is a great material for baby clothes. Gentle, silky smooth, and moisture-wicking, it’ll keep your little one comfy and dry all day.

We recommend versatile outfits that keep baby comfortable while they nap and play. Also, don't forget to pack spare clothes that are easy to get on and off in case of any accidents that take place during the day. Stretchy clothes with two-way zippers make diaper changes as seamless as possible.

Cute yet practical wardrobe staples include:

• Rompers

• Bodysuits

• One-pieces

• Dresses

In the summer, dress your little one in lightweight fabrics, and make sure to pack a sun hat and sunscreen in case of outdoor time. These items will help protect your little one’s sensitive skin from the sun’s UV rays.

In the winter, swap the sun hat and sunscreen for a warm beanie, gloves, and other outdoor layers like a jacket or snowsuit.

No daycare supplies list would be complete without diapers and other hygiene items. Try designating a separate diaper bag just for daycare, with all the daycare essentials in one place (and without the extra clutter that inevitably collects in your own bag).

When it comes to what to pack in a diaper bag for daycare, make sure to include:

• Baby wipes

• Diaper cream or ointment

• Burp cloths

• A change of clothes

• Disposable bags

Of course, pack plenty of extra diapers, too, and replenish your supply when it gets low.

The number of times your infant feeds during the day will vary based on their age and their own personal cues. On average, a five-month-old baby on breast milk or formula feeds five to six times per day.²

Whatever the case, clearly communicate your feeding schedule to the daycare staff, and always pack extra food just in case.

If your infant’s nutrition source is breast milk or baby formula, pack bottles every day. Keep them organized in a cooler or baby bottle cady, and don’t forget to add date labels and a name tag.

Here’s a pro packing tip: bottles are a hassle to wash and sterilize, so set yourself up for a smooth morning by laying out clean, dry bottles for yourself. This way, they will be ready to fill in the morning - and you’re less likely to forget them in the fridge!

Children can start gradually eating solid food at around six months old. So, as your baby grows, you can switch from the formula cooler to a kid’s lunch box.³ Use reusable containers to pack daycare lunches and healthy snacks, plus a sweet treat for dessert. Remember to label your child’s containers with their name and date.

At this stage, you may also start packing:

• Sippy cup

• Water bottle

• Utensils

• Straws

• Bibs

Keep in mind that daycares typically have strict rules around food. Some daycare centers don’t allow baby-led weaning, others may be strictly nut-free, while some may provide food and snacks, so be sure to check in beforehand.

Daycare is often the first time that babies are apart from their parents—and this can be a stressful experience for your little one. Help ease the transition with plenty of positive encouragement, as well as comforting items from home.

If your child struggles with separation anxiety, one way to be proactive is by sending them to daycare with items like:

• Favorite toy – This could be a stuffed animal, blankie, lovey, or other item.

• Teething toy – Pacifiers and other teethers can help soothe babies.

• Picture – This could be a family photo or a snapshot of their dog or cat.

Familiar items like these can help remind kids that they’re loved, safe, and not alone.

If your little one takes daily medications, make sure to provide your daycare center or your child's teacher with a schedule, dosage instructions, and emergency contact information. Additionally, always pack extra medication just in case. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Your daycare provider may want to have a copy of your child’s health records on file.

Your pediatrician can provide a copy of your child’s medical records, as well as their immunization card.

Some daycares will also require proof that your child is up to date on immunizations. The CDC lists age-appropriate vaccines on its website, but requirements vary by state, so make sure to check your state and daycare requirements before arriving on day one.⁴

Starting daycare marks an exciting new milestone in your and your baby’s lives. To help foster a smooth transition, make sure your peanut feels comfy all day long with soft, stretchy, and stylish clothes from Posh Peanut.

Browse our adorable selection of infant and toddler clothes, as well as kid’s backpacks, lunch bags, and more. With colorful patterns and creative designs, we have daycare gear that you—and your child—will love.

Sources: 

¹ Medical News Today. What to know about heat rash in babies.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324702

² Johns Hopkins Medicine. Feeding Guide for the First Year.

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/feeding-guide-for-the-first-year

³ CDC. Vaccines at 4 to 6 Years.

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/parents/by-age/years-4-6.html