What Does My Child Really Need for Daycare?
If you’re getting ready for your child’s first day at daycare, you’re probably staring at an empty backpack wondering, “Am I forgetting something important?”
You’re not alone. One of the top questions we get from families at Paramus Daycare at Jumpin Jax is what to pack — and how much is too much.
That’s why we created this simple, no-fluff checklist for daycare packing. It’s designed to help busy Paramus and Bergen County parents like you feel fully prepared from day one.
Daycare Packing Checklist: Essentials by Age
📎 TIP: Label everything — especially clothes and containers — to prevent mix-ups. A Sharpie or waterproof name labels work great.
👶 Infants (6 weeks – 12 months)
- Diapers (enough for the full day + extras)
- Wipes
- Diaper cream (with signed permission form)
- Bottles (prepped and labeled)
- Formula or breastmilk (in cooler bag if needed)
- 2–3 changes of clothes
- Bibs (2–3)
- Burp cloths
- Pacifiers (with clip, if allowed)
- Blanket or swaddle
- Sleep sack (if needed for naps)
- Favorite soft toy or lovey (optional)
🚼 Toddlers (1–3 years)
- Diapers or pull-ups
- Wipes and cream
- Sippy cup or water bottle
- 2–3 changes of clothes (include socks and underwear if potty training)
- Nap blanket or sheet (ask about mat size)
- Comfort item for naps (if needed)
- Snacks or lunch (if not provided)
- Jacket or seasonal outerwear
- Sunhat and sunscreen (signed permission form required)
👧 Preschoolers (3–5 years)
- Backpack big enough for folders/artwork
- Refillable water bottle
- Lunch and/or snacks
- Extra set of clothes (just in case)
- Nap mat or blanket (if your program includes rest time)
- Sweater or hoodie (rooms can be chilly!)
- Weather-appropriate gear (boots, hat, gloves, etc.)
- Sunscreen (as approved)
🔄 Ask your teacher: Every daycare has slightly different rules on what they provide and what they expect. At Jumpin Jax, we send a reminder every week of what to refresh or restock.
🎒 Want the full checklist in one place?
Download our printable “Daycare Packing List for Paramus Parents” (PDF) — branded, organized, and fridge-ready.
Optional (But Helpful!) Extras
- Laminated family photo (great for comfort)
- Zippered wet bag for soiled clothes
- Small pack of wipes in the backpack for on-the-go needs
- Weather card or allergy alert tag (if applicable)
Common Packing Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
- Packing brand-new clothes → Use play clothes you won’t mind getting messy.
- Skipping backups → Accidents happen. Always include at least one extra outfit.
- Forgetting labels → Use waterproof name labels or write directly on tags/lids.
- Sending breakable containers → Stick to lightweight, leakproof, and kid-safe gear.
Visual Suggestions
- Downloadable branded PDF checklist (printable, with Paramus Daycare at Jumpin Jax logo and color scheme)
- Photos of organized cubbies, labeled lunch containers, a sample backpack
- Graphic showing “Top 5 Daycare Packing Must-Haves”
You Bring the Bag. We’ll Handle the Rest.
Packing for daycare doesn’t need to be overwhelming. With a little planning — and a checklist like this one — you’ll walk into the first day feeling calm, confident, and ready.
At Paramus Daycare at Jumpin Jax, we make transitions easier for parents and kids alike. Whether it’s your first day or your fifth year, we’re here to support your family every step of the way.
📞 Have questions? Call us at (201) 500-2951
🖱️ Or book a tour today to visit our bright, secure, and family-focused facility in Paramus.
