Daycare or Preschool Packing List for Babies & Toddlers – BagCheck Baby

What to pack for daycare or preschool

A sample checklist — your personalized AI list will include items based on your child's age, weather, and how you're travelling.

📦Pack first

Essentials — don't leave without these

Labeled diapersName written in permanent marker
Labeled bottlesAt least 2 for a full day
Spare outfits x2Accidents happen — labeled
Comfort toy or loveyLabeled with child's name
Health card or emergency contact form
Formula or breast milkLabeled and dated
Labeled wipes pack
Daycare bag or backpackClearly labeled with name

⭐Keep within reach

In your bag's top pocket or side pocket

Signed permission slips or forms
Medication with written instructionsIf applicable
Snack for drop-offIf allowed by daycare
Spare pacifierLabeled, if child uses one

✨Nice to have

Optional but helpful

Sleep sack or nap blanketCheck daycare policy on blankets
Show-and-tell itemIf it's that day
Sunscreen pre-appliedOr leave labeled bottle at daycare
Waterproof bib or twoFor mealtimes
Wet bag for dirty clothes

🚗Leave in the car

Backup supplies in the boot

Emergency spare outfit
Extra diapers
Extra formula tin
Spare comfort toy

How the list changes by age

A newborn needs very different things from a toddler. Here's what to focus on at each stage.

0–3 months

Newborn

Newborns need more formula/milk — pack extra bottles
Label everything including individual diapers
Include a written feeding schedule for caregivers
Pack at least 3 spare outfits — blowouts are frequent

3–12 months

Baby

Starting solids? Pack labeled food pouches or jars
Include a daily routine note (nap times, feeding schedule)
Introduce comfort object now so daycare has it too
Pack teething toys if baby is teething

1–4 years

Toddler

Toddlers need only 1–2 spare outfits typically
Pack a labeled water cup (sippy or open cup)
Include a note about current sleep/nap preferences
Show-and-tell days: let toddler choose their item the night before

Frequently asked questions

Common questions parents have about packing for daycare or preschool.

What do I need to label at daycare?+

Label everything: diapers, bottles, sippy cups, clothing, shoes, bags, lunchboxes, comfort toys, and sleep sacks. Use permanent marker, iron-on labels, or a label maker.

How many bottles should I send to daycare?+

For a full-day infant, send 3–4 bottles. For a half-day, 2 is usually enough. Always send one extra just in case. Label each bottle with name and date.

Do I need to pack food for my toddler at preschool?+

Depends on your preschool. Some provide meals, others require packed lunches. Check their policy. For babies on solids, always bring their own labeled food.

What comfort items can I send to daycare?+

A small, labeled stuffed animal or lovey is usually fine. Check the daycare's policy on blankets (many have restrictions for sleep safety). Pacifiers should be labeled too.

How do I prepare my baby the night before daycare?+

Pack the bag the night before. Pre-fill and refrigerate bottles. Write a note about baby's current routine. Lay out all labeled items. This makes morning drop-offs much smoother.

Daycare & Preschool Packing List for Babies and Toddlers