What to Pack for Your Child’s First Day of Daycare

I still remember the night before my child started daycare.

The kitchen table looked like I was packing for a week-long camping trip : tiny outfits, bottles, snacks, diapers, three different pacifiers… and me, second-guessing everything.

I must have typed “What to Pack for Your Child’s First Day of Daycare” into Google a hundred times. I was terrified of sending her without something important. What if she had a blowout ? What if she got hungry ? What if she needed her favorite stuffed animal and I’d left it on her bed at home?

On top of that, I was emotional. Packing that little backpack felt like packing up her babyhood. It’s a big milestone, and yes, it’s okay if you cry in the car after drop-off (been there).

If you’re in that swirl of feelings and to-do lists right now, take a deep breath. You don’t have to figure this out alone.

This post will walk you through exactly what to pack, why it matters, and a few mom-to-mom tips to make the first day feel calmer for both of you. Think of it as your friendly daycare packing checklist—no judgment, just practical help. 💛

1. Start With a Good Bag : Backpack or Diaper Bag

Before you think about what goes inside, let’s talk about the bag itself.

A simple, sturdy backpack or diaper bag makes life so much easier. Look for :

• Easy-to-clean material – Daycare = spills, crumbs, and random stickiness.
• Multiple pockets – One for diapers, one for clothes, one for food, etc.
• A name tag – Or a place to clip one on.

If your child is a little older (toddler or preschooler), a small backpack they can carry themselves can help them feel proud and “big.”

Mom tip :
I kept a “core set” of daycare items that always stayed in the bag (like extra clothes and a wet bag), and only swapped out daily things like bottles and lunch. It saved my brain on busy mornings.

2. Diapers, Wipes, and Potty Supplies

If your child is still in diapers, this section is key. Even if your daycare provides some items, it’s good to know what they expect from you.

For diapered kids

Pack :

• Diapers : Enough for the day plus a few extras. Many centers like a whole pack left in the cubby.
• Wipes : A full pack or a labeled container.
• Diaper cream/ointment : If allowed by your daycare (usually with a permission form).
• Changing pad (optional) : Some parents include a small foldable pad, though most centers have their own.

For potty-training or potty-trained kids

Pack :

• Several pairs of underwear – Accidents are normal in a new environment.
• Easy-on, easy-off pants – Leggings, joggers, or elastic waistbands are your best friend.
• Extra bottoms in case of accidents.

Mom tip :
Choose clothes that your child (and caregivers) can pull up and down quickly. Buttons, belts, and overalls are cute, but they’re a nightmare when someone suddenly has to go right now.

3. Extra Clothes (Yes, More Than You Think)

Daycare is messy in the best way : paint, water play, food smears, outdoor fun… and the occasional blowout or potty accident.

Plan for at least two full extra outfits, including :

• Shirt
• Pants/leggings/shorts
• Socks
• Underwear (if applicable)

For younger kids, you might even pack a third outfit for the first few weeks.

Seasonal extras

Depending on weather :

• Warm layers : Sweater/hoodie, extra socks.
• Summer : Light extra outfit if they get soaked playing with water or sweat through clothes.

Remember :
Make sure the extra clothes are :

• Comfortable
• Weather-appropriate
• Okay to get stained

Save the “special” clothes for weekends. Daycare clothes are for play, not perfection.

Mom tip :
I kept a little note on my phone: “Check spare clothes bag on Fridays.” That way I’d restock anything that came home dirty before Monday rolled around.

4. Feeding Supplies : Bottles, Snacks, and Water

What you pack for food depends on your child’s age and what the daycare provides, so always check their policy first.

For babies

You may need :

• Breast milk or formula – Labeled with your child’s name and the date.
• Bottles – Enough for the day, plus one extra just in case.
• Nipples and caps – Make sure they fit the bottles the daycare has (if they provide their own).
• Burp cloths – 1–2, depending on your baby’s usual needs.

For toddlers and preschoolers

Depending on the center, you might pack :

• A water bottle or sippy cup – Spill-proof, easy for tiny hands to open, clearly labeled.
• Snacks – If the daycare doesn’t provide them or if you prefer sending your own.
• Lunch – In an easy-to-open container or lunchbox.

Keep foods simple :

• Cut fruit and veggies
• Sandwiches or wraps
• Yogurt pouches
• Crackers and cheese

Avoid anything that needs complicated heating unless the center specifically says they can handle it.

Mom tip :
Try out containers at home so your child can practice opening them. It builds independence and reduces frustration at daycare.

5. Comfort and Connection Items

The first day (and first few weeks) can be emotional for both you and your child. Sending something that smells or feels like “home” can be incredibly calming.

Ideas for comfort items :

• A small stuffed animal or lovey
• A blanket or soft cloth they already sleep with
• A family photo tucked into their cubby or backpack
• A small “matching” bracelet or keychain – one for you, one for them

Always check your daycare’s rules about what’s allowed in the crib/nap mat for safety reasons, especially for babies.

Mom tip :
I laminated a small photo of our family and put it on a ring clip. My child’s teacher kept it near the nap mat and would show it during tough moments: “Mama always comes back.”

6. Nap-Time Essentials

If your child will be at daycare during nap time, the center should tell you what they use (cribs, cots, mats) and what they want you to send.

You may need :

• Small blanket
• Sleep sack (for babies, instead of loose blankets)
• Pacifier (if your child uses one) – Pack a backup if allowed.

Try to send items your child already associates with sleep at home. That familiarity can really help them settle in a new environment.

Mom tip :
If your daycare asks for a special nap blanket or sheet to leave there, wash it in your usual detergent so it smells like home. It’s a tiny thing, but kids notice.

7. Health, Medication, and “Just in Case” Items

Most daycare centers have strict rules about medication—and that’s a good thing. Be sure to ask ahead of time what they allow and what forms you need.

You may need to provide :

• Prescription medications – In original containers with instructions and your child’s name.
• Any required forms signed by you and/or your pediatrician.
• Allergy info – Written clearly and shared with staff (e.g., peanuts, dairy).
• Teething gel or pain reliever – Only if allowed by the center and with written permission.

Even if your child doesn’t take regular medication, consider packing :

• A small pack of tissues
• A labeled lip balm (for older toddlers) in dry climates
• Diaper cream for diapered kids (with permission)

Mom tip :
Hand any medication directly to a teacher—don’t just leave it in the bag. Confirm they know when and how it should be used.

8. Outdoor and Seasonal Gear

Even if your child’s daycare is indoors, most centers include outdoor time whenever weather allows. That means packing for the elements.

For sunny weather

• Sun hat
• Sunscreen (if they require you to provide your own)
• Lightweight jacket or layer

For cold weather

• Warm coat
• Hat and mittens (label the mittens—they disappear easily!)
• Extra socks
• Boots (if there’s snow or rain)

For rainy/muddy days

• Raincoat
• Rain boots
• Optional: mud pants or extra pants

Mom tip :
Ask where outdoor gear is stored. If there’s a hook or cubby, you might keep seasonal items (like rain boots) at daycare full-time instead of carrying them back and forth.

9. Don’t Forget the Paperwork (And Your Notes for Staff)

The first day isn’t just about stuff—it’s also about information.

Most daycare centers will ask for :

• Enrollment forms
• Emergency contacts
• Immunization records
• Allergy or medical forms

But you can also help the staff by sharing a few “get to know my child” notes, such as:

• Nicknames
• Typical nap schedule
• Comfort strategies (e.g., “She likes her back rubbed when she’s upset”)
• Any fears (loud noises, separation, etc.)
• Food preferences or sensitivities

You can keep it simple—just a one-page note clipped inside their folder or backpack.

Mom tip :
I wrote a brief “About [Child’s Name]” note for the first day: favorite toy, words for “blanket” or “water,” and what helps at nap time. It made me feel better knowing the teachers had a little “cheat sheet.”

10. Label, Label, Label (Seriously—Everything)

This might be the least glamorous part, but it will save you so much frustration later: label everything.

Label :

• Shirts, pants, sweaters
• Bottles, sippy cups, water bottles
• Lunch containers and lids
• Blankets, loveys (if allowed)
• Jackets, hats, mittens
• Even shoes if your child has similar ones to their classmates

You can use :

• Permanent markers
• Iron-on labels
• Stick-on name labels (which are amazing for bottles and lunchboxes)

Mom tip :
Do a labeling session before the night before daycare starts. Future you will be very grateful.

A Quick “First Day of Daycare” Packing Checklist

Here’s a simple list you can screenshot :

Bag :

• Backpack or diaper bag

Diapering/Potty :

• Diapers (or underwear)
• Wipes
• Diaper cream (if allowed)
• Extra pants/leggings

Clothes :

• 2–3 extra outfits
• Extra socks
• Seasonal layers (sweater, hat, etc.)

Feeding :

• Bottles and milk/formula (for babies)
• Lunch and snacks (if needed)
• Bibs/burp cloths
• Water bottle/sippy cup

Comfort & Nap :

• Lovey or blanket (if allowed)
• Sleep sack or nap blanket
• Family photo (optional)

Health & Info :

• Medications and forms (if needed)
• Allergy/medical info
• “About my child” note

Outdoor Gear :

• Sun hat / sunscreen
• Coat and mittens
• Boots or rain gear (seasonal)

Labels :

• Name on all clothes, bottles, and gear

You do not need to be perfect or have the fanciest gear. You just need your child to be safe, reasonably prepared, and loved—and you’ve already got the love part covered. 💛

A Quick Word From the Experts (Without the Jargon)

Pediatricians and early childhood organizations often emphasize three big things when it comes to starting daycare :

1. Consistency : Sending familiar items (like a lovey or blanket) and keeping routines as predictable as possible helps children feel safer.
2. Communication : Sharing details about your child’s routines, allergies, and preferences helps caregivers support your child better.
3. Preparation : Having enough diapers, extra clothes, and labeled items isn’t just convenient—it reduces stress for both staff and kids and helps the day run more smoothly.

So when you’re packing that little bag, you’re not “being extra”—you’re setting your child (and their caregivers) up for success.

Encouragement : You’re Allowed to Feel All the Feelings

Mama, this is a big milestone.

You might feel proud, sad, nervous, excited—or all of the above in the same five minutes. Packing for the first day of daycare isn’t just about outfits and bottles; it’s about letting your heart walk into a new space without you, even for a few hours.

Please remember :

• You’re not “overthinking it” by wanting your child to be comfortable and prepared.
• You’re not a bad mom if you forget something. Daycare staff are used to new families and will help you figure things out.
• You and your child will find your rhythm. The first day is just the beginning.

You’re doing your best, and that is more than enough. Truly. 🌼

Let’s Chat : What’s in Your Daycare Bag ?

I’d love to hear from you :

👉 What’s one thing you packed (or wish you had packed) for your child’s first day of daycare?

Share your must-haves, funny stories, or “oops, I forgot the…” moments in the comments—another mom might be scrolling in the middle of the night, looking for reassurance, and your words could help her breathe easier.

And if you’d like more checklists, gentle parenting guides, and mom-to-mom support, feel free to join my email list. We’re all figuring this out together, one daycare drop-off at a time. 💌