15 Jul 2022 | 4 min Read
Reema Shah
Author | 740 Articles
A preschool is your child’s first step to education and prepares him/her for the bigger school. Preschools usually hold classes for three to four hours a day and teach toddlers to get socially interactive, their first alphabet, recognise colours etc.
So what should you pack for your little one’s back-to-school time? Be it your child’s first day at a preschool or getting back after a break, we have compiled a list of the most important items needed for the back-to-school pack for your preschooler.
Preschools can have both indoor and outdoor play areas. So if your little one’s preschool has an outdoor play area, use a mosquito repellent spray on the baby’s skin. You can also stick these easy-to-use, water-resistant mosquito repellent patches on your little one’s outfit that are safe to use on your baby’s skin.
Your child’s hands can get messy because of the artwork, playing or having food. The frequency of hand washing might not be as per the need because you’re not around. So to make things easier and safer for your child, give them wipes that are easy to use on the go.
If you have enrolled your child in a full-day program, packing lunch is essential. Some preschools provide meals to the children but if your little one’s preschool does not have that facility, you have to make sure you pack a nutritious lunch.
Use a lunch box with different sections and add finger foods along with other food items so that your child gets easy access to eat. This is because your child may still not be used to eating in a rush so having a lunch box with accessible sections will make it easy for him/her. Consider investing in an insulated, reusable plastic box or nylon bag to keep your child’s food fresh and warm. Even ice packs can be used to keep foods and drinks fresh.
Give your child a spill-proof water bottle to meet your little one’s hydration needs all day. Preschoolers between the ages of one to three years need to drink about 16 to 32 ounces of water per day. You may also want to add some slices of citrus fruits like oranges and limes to your little one’s water to make it taste better.
Many preschools advise parents to send an extra set of clothes for their child, which can be used in case of water play, bathroom accidents or other messy activities. Don’t forget to give them an extra pair of socks as well.
Even in preschool, your child will come home with permission slips, classroom newsletters, craft projects and other important documents and information. Ensure that your preschooler’s backpack is of the right size. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, your child’s filled backpack should not exceed 10-20% of your child’s weight.
Other than the change of clothes, some preschools also require you to get a spare pair of shoes. Some preschools also require your child to change into slippers before she enters the classroom while some schools may want it in case the other pair becomes wet or muddy.
Young children are prone to the common cold and with COVID still around, a protective face mask is mandatory for their safety. Get a well-fitting mask that is specially designed for children, in different prints and colours so that your little one is excited to wear it to school. Give them an extra pair of face covering for emergencies.
Going back to school or starting preschool for the first time is an exciting phase in your child’s life. Make sure they have all the essentials needed to make their day in school comfortable.
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