As a parent, sending your child to preschool for the first time can be both exciting and nerve-wracking.
One of the most important things you can do to prepare your child for their first day is to make sure they have all the necessary supplies.
But with so many options and recommendations out there, it can be difficult to know where to start.
In this blog post, we’ll go over a comprehensive preschool supply list for parents to help make the process easier.
Before we dive into the list, it’s important to note that each preschool may have specific requirements or recommendations.
Be sure to check with your child’s school for any additional or specific items they may need.
Related: What are the Requirements to be a Preschool Teacher
Related: 5 Important Preschool Development Stages
14 Item Preschool Supply List for Parents
Backpack
A backpack is a must-have for preschoolers to carry their belongings to and from school. Look for a lightweight, durable backpack with comfortable straps that can fit your child’s lunchbox, water bottle, and any other items they may need.
Lunchbox
While some preschools may provide snacks or meals, many require parents to pack a lunch for their child. Look for a lunchbox with insulated compartments to keep food fresh and at the right temperature. It’s also a good idea to choose a lunchbox that is easy for your child to open and close on their own.
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is important for young children, especially during the school day. Look for a leak-proof, spill-proof water bottle with a straw or spout that your child can easily use. Choose a bottle with a design your child loves to encourage them to drink water throughout the day.
Extra clothes
Accidents happen, and it’s always a good idea to have a change of clothes on hand in case your child spills, gets dirty, or has a bathroom accident. Pack a complete change of clothes, including underwear and socks, in a labeled bag to keep in your child’s backpack or cubby at school.
Nap Time items
Many preschools have a designated nap time, so it’s important to pack any necessary items to help your child rest comfortably. This may include a small pillow, blanket, stuffed animal, or other comfort item. Check with your child’s school for any specific guidelines or restrictions on naptime items.
Art supplies
Preschoolers love to create, and providing them with a variety of art supplies can help foster their creativity and imagination. Basic supplies to include in your child’s backpack or cubby may include washable markers, crayons, colored pencils, child-safe scissors, glue sticks, and construction paper.
Backpack hooks or cubby labels
To help keep your child’s belongings organized and easy to find, consider labeling their backpack and any other items they bring to school with their name. Some preschools may provide cubby labels, but if not, you can easily make your own using adhesive labels or a label maker. You may also want to consider purchasing backpack hooks to hang your child’s backpack and other items at home.
Hand sanitizer and tissues
Germs spread quickly in a classroom setting, so it’s a good idea to pack a travel-sized hand sanitizer and tissues in your child’s backpack. Encourage your child to use hand sanitizer after using the bathroom and before eating, and to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
Indoor shoes
Some preschools may require children to wear indoor shoes to help keep the classroom clean and free of dirt and debris. Look for a comfortable pair of shoes that are easy for your child to put on and take off, and that have non-slip soles for safety.
Sunscreen and hat
If your child’s preschool has outdoor playtime, it’s important to protect their skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Pack a tube of child-safe sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and a hat with a brim to shade your child’s face and neck. Be sure to apply sunscreen before drop-off, and remind your child to reapply throughout the day as needed.
Diapers and wipes (if applicable)
If your child is not yet fully potty-trained, it’s important to pack a sufficient supply of diapers and wipes for the school day. Be sure to label the bag with your child’s name and any specific instructions for changing.
Snacks
Even if your child’s preschool provides snacks or meals, it’s always a good idea to have a few healthy snacks on hand in case your child gets hungry between meals. Choose easy-to-pack snacks like cut-up fruits and vegetables, cheese sticks, or crackers. Be sure to check with your child’s school for any specific guidelines on snacks.
Communication notebook
A communication notebook is a great way for parents and teachers to stay in touch and keep each other updated on any important information about your child’s day. Use the notebook to communicate about anything from naptime schedules to behavioral issues, and be sure to check it regularly for any notes or updates from the teacher.
Extra school supplies (optional)
While most preschools provide basic school supplies, you may want to consider packing some extra items for your child to use at home. This may include a notebook, pencils, and markers for practicing letters and numbers, or books for reading and story time.
Conclusion
By making sure your child has all the necessary supplies, you can help set them up for success and ease any anxieties you may have as a parent.
Remember to check with your child’s school for any specific requirements or recommendations, and don’t forget to label all of your child’s belongings with their name to help keep them organized and easy to find.
With a little preparation and planning, your child will be ready for their first day of preschool in no time!
References
- Downing, K., Ritter, S., & Goodman, J. (2010). Parental involvement in children’s education during preschool: The role of supplies provision. Early Childhood Education Journal, 38(1), 45-51.
This study examines the relationship between parental involvement in preschool and the provision of supplies. The authors found that parents who provided more supplies for their children’s preschool education tended to be more involved in their child’s learning overall.
- Neuman, S. B., & Wright, T. S. (2014). The importance of book ownership and reading opportunities for preschool children’s language and literacy development. Reading Research Quarterly, 49(3), 277-290.
This study looks specifically at the importance of books in preschool children’s language and literacy development. The authors found that children who had greater access to books and reading opportunities in preschool had stronger literacy skills later on.
- Jimenez-Silva, M., & Garcia-Sanchez, J. N. (2020). The role of preschool material resources in children’s learning and development: A systematic review. Early Childhood Research Quarterly, 53, 291-305.
This systematic review examines the role of material resources in preschool children’s learning and development.
