It’s back-to-school season and that means getting your little ones ready for the classroom. For parents with preschool-aged children, this may be the first year of sending them into such a formal school environment. Packing the right things in their backpacks can help them be successful and stay healthy this school year.
Essentials List For Preschoolers
As you make your list for your child’s backpack, start with the essentials.
Lunchbox
Your child needs a quality lunchbox that can fit in their backpack and keep their food chilled until lunch or snack time. While many schools provide meals you may want to send food of your own if your child has special dietary needs or is a picky eater. Bonus: you can include a kids elderberry immune gummy in their lunch pack to support their immune health.
Water bottle
Preschoolers also should have a water bottle of their own for school. Pick one that seals tightly so it won’t leak in your child’s backpack or classroom. It should also be easy for little hands to operate and hold without struggling. Your child’s water bottle will come in handy for recess periods and just to make sure they stay hydrated. If allowed, get a second one to keep at school in case the first is lost.
Napping items
Many preschools have nap periods, so check with your child’s teacher about their procedures. You may need to send a blanket or mat to school with your child. If cots are provided, ask if your child will be allowed to have any comfort items. Some children are better at napping when they’re able to have their favorite stuffed animal or blankie.
Helpful Extras For Your Preschooler
Outside of the basics, there are some extra items that are always good for your child to have at preschool.
Extra set of clothes
Young children are prone to getting into messy things even at school. It’s a good idea to pack extra clothes for your little student in case something happens. By having an outfit to change into, you reduce the chance that your child will have to sit out because of an accident or a mess. They can still get the critical social interaction for toddlers that they need.
Diapers/ training pants and wipes
For children still potty training or prone to accidents, pack diapers and wipes and talk with your child’s teacher or school nurse about the procedure for changing diapers during the school day. This is also a good time to talk with them about your potty training method so they can reinforce your efforts.
Outerwear
Make sure your little one always has a backup rain jacket or sweater in case the weather takes a turn. You can also ask about keeping a jacket at school to make it easier to remember. If you do, be sure to put their name on the item so it doesn’t get mixed up with someone else’s.
The start of preschool can be stress-free with just a bit of planning. To help keep them stay healthy when classroom bugs start going around, check out how supplements like the ones from Wellements can help. Contact us today to see what’s right for your family.