What to Pack for Your Child's First Day of Daycare
4 min readUpdated October 3, 2026
The night before the first day, most parents stand in front of a half-packed bag wondering what they are forgetting. Here is the whole list, by age, so you can pack once and sleep.
Every center has its own specifics, so confirm the details with your teacher. This is the list we give Mountainside families, and it works almost anywhere.
For infants
Babies need the most, but it is all routine once you have the bag set up.
- Bottles, prepared and labeled, plus formula or breast milk for the day
- Diapers (a full day's worth plus a few extra) and wipes
- Two complete changes of clothes, including socks
- Any diaper cream or medication, with the center's medication form if required
- A comfort item, like a small blanket or lovey, if your baby has one
- Pacifiers, if used, labeled
For toddlers
Toddlers are busy and messy in the best way. Plan for at least one outfit change.
- Two changes of clothes, plus extra underwear if potty training
- Diapers or pull-ups and wipes, if still needed
- A labeled water bottle or sippy cup
- Weather-appropriate outerwear: a jacket, hat, and mittens in cold months, a sun hat in summer
- A nap blanket and, if your child uses one, a small pillow
- Comfortable, closed-toe shoes for the playground
For preschool and pre-K
Older children need less, but the extras still matter on art day and water-play day.
- One change of clothes (yes, still)
- A labeled water bottle
- A nap blanket if your program rests after lunch
- Outdoor gear for the season
- A backpack they can open and close themselves
Label everything
Every item, every day, including each sock. Iron-on labels and a laundry marker are the fastest. Teachers can keep track of twelve children's belongings far more easily when the names are on them, and you will get far fewer mystery items home in the bag.
Leave at home
Toys from home (they get lost or fought over), jewelry, anything with small parts, and food that has not been discussed with the center. If your child has allergies, make sure the center has them in writing before the first day.