Daycare Preparation Checklist: Everything You Need Before Your Child Starts

Starting daycare is an exciting milestone for both children and parents. Proper preparation can help your child settle in smoothly, feel secure, and enjoy a positive experience.

Here’s a quick checklist to get you started, followed by detailed guidance for each item.

Daycare Preparation Quick Checklist

Complete enrolment and paperwork

Pack a well-prepared daycare bag

Establish a consistent home routine

Talk about daycare positively

Label all belongings

Plan drop-off and pick-up routines

Prepare for emotional adjustment

Review health and safety procedures

Keep an open line of communication with educators

Take care of yourself

Detailed Daycare Preparation Guide

1. Complete Enrolment and Paperwork

Ensure all forms, medical records, and consent documents are submitted:

Up-to-date immunisation records
List of allergies or medical conditions
Emergency contact information

Having everything ready allows educators to care for your child safely from day one.

2. Pack a Well-Prepared Daycare Bag

Your child will need:

Spare clothes for accidents or messy play
Diapers or nappies for babies and toddlers
Comfort items like a favourite blanket or toy
Sun hat and sunscreen for outdoor activities
Labelled water bottle and lunch/snacks (if required)

A prepared bag ensures a smooth day and reduces stress for both children and educators.

3. Establish a Consistent Home Routine

Children thrive with predictable schedules. Practice:

Regular bedtimes and wake-up times
Set meal times
Short independent play sessions to build confidence

A familiar routine helps children transition into daycare more easily.

4. Talk About Daycare Positively

Discuss daycare as a fun and exciting place:

Highlight making new friends
Talk about play and learning activities
Reassure your child that you will return at pick-up

Keep your own anxieties private; children pick up on adult emotions.

5. Label All Belongings

Label everything your child brings:

Clothing, lunch boxes, bottles, bags, hats, comfort items

This prevents lost items and helps educators manage belongings efficiently.

6. Plan Drop-Off and Pick-Up Routines

Consistency is key:

Arrive on time and allow your child to settle gradually
Keep goodbyes short and confident
Pick up on schedule to build trust and routine

Predictable routines make children feel secure.

7. Prepare for Emotional Adjustment

It’s normal for children to take time to settle:

Expect tears or clinginess initially
Maintain open communication with educators about progress
Celebrate milestones like first smile, shared toy, or independent activity

Patience and reassurance are essential.

8. Review Health and Safety Procedures

Know the centre’s policies on:

Illness and medication
Emergency procedures
Hygiene routines

Being informed gives peace of mind and helps your child feel safe.

9. Keep an Open Line of Communication with Educators

Work closely with the team:

Ask about daily routines and updates
Discuss developmental milestones and concerns
Share any special instructions or preferences

Collaboration ensures consistency and security for your child.

10. Take Care of Yourself

Children sense your feelings. Staying calm, confident, and positive helps them do the same. Preparation is not just about the child; it’s also about ensuring you feel ready and informed for this new chapter.

Final Thoughts

Starting daycare is a big step, but with this checklist, you can reduce stress, stay organised, and help your child settle confidently.

Pro tip: Visit the centre together before the first day so your child feels familiar with the environment and educators, they’ll thank you for it!

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