Dear families,
Parents often ask about what they need to bring on the first day at the last minute, so we put together a one-page checklist for you to double check what you might miss. Please bring the following items:
- Immunization record of your child
- Completed licensing & consent forms (fill them out with the online application; the Enroll page links to them too)
- Under age 2: a wearable sleep suit or sleep sack. Children under 2 follow the infant safe sleep requirement, so no blankets.
- Age 2 and up: a nap mat with a pillow and blanket (we give it back to you so you can wash it weekly)
- 2 family photos (so we can help the child to know where daddy and mommy are)
- A comfort toy (something that can comfort your child, e.g. a teddy bear, a doll or a ball etc.)
- 3 extra clothes
- A week supply of diapers & wipes (we will inform you when the supply is low)
- A current schedule (nap and eating time)
- Enough bottled breast milk (if applicable)
- Enough formula (if applicable)
Not sure what to get?
These are things we have used and liked. They are ideas, not requirements: anything similar works.
For sleep, under age 2
A wearable sleep suit keeps your child warm without a loose blanket. Pick the sleeve length for the season:
For nap time, age 2 and up
- Nap mat with pillow and blanket: it rolls up into one piece, so it is easy to carry home for washing each week.
Our “first day of care” list, ages 0 to 2
First day of care materials (0-2yr): a straw cup, fitted sheets for nap mats, cribs and play yards, and more.
Books to read together
- Before the first day: Help your child with transition, with Bye-Bye Time and The Color Monster Goes to School. Reading about goodbyes and feelings at home can make drop-off easier to talk about.
- Just for fun: Fun story books for kids, including Llama Llama Red Pajama and The Very Hungry Caterpillar.
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