Getting readySeptember 29, 2026·7 min read
Preschool essentials: checklist for parents
The first day of preschool is a huge milestone. You've helped your toddler get ready, and now it's time to pack the backpack. From extra clothes to paperwork, there's a lot to remember, so a good old-fashioned checklist helps. It's handy for first-time parents, and a quick refresher never hurts if this isn't your first preschool year. Good news: healthy meals are included with tuition at A+ Academy, so lunch is one less thing to pack.
Comfy, sturdy clothes
Kids are hard on clothes: paint, spills, rips and potty accidents. Choose soft, stretchy, breathable fabrics that hold up to play, and outfits your child can pull on and off by themselves.
Shoes built for play
Look for flexible soles, grippy tread, light breathable material, easy Velcro or buckle straps, and a little wiggle room (a half size up). Hand-me-down clothes are great, but skip second-hand shoes, since they're already shaped to another child's foot.
A spare set of clothes
Accidents and spilled juice happen. Pack a full change of clothes, including underwear and socks. It can stay at school so it's always ready.
Dress for the weather
Our kids play outside every day, so send a jacket, hat or sunscreen to match the season.
Personal hygiene items
"Wash your hands!" is a daily line in every classroom. Ask your teacher which of these to send: hand sanitizer, sunscreen, toothbrush and toothpaste, lotion, lip balm, and a comb or brush.
Nap time gear
If your child naps at school, ask whether to bring a nap mat and sheet. A favorite stuffed animal or small blanket helps them feel safe and settle down.
A backpack that fits
Pick a preschool-size backpack with adjustable straps, big enough for folders and artwork so nothing comes home crumpled. Let your child choose the design so they're excited to wear it.
Water bottle and snacks
Healthy meals are included with tuition, so no lunchbox needed. A refillable water bottle is a good idea, and anything sent from home must be nut-free. We are a nut-free school.
Classroom supplies
We'll let you know what's needed. Common supplies include paper, pencils, erasers, and sometimes books, blocks or puzzles for play and quiet time.
Art and craft supplies
Preschool is full of coloring, painting and crafts. Typical supplies: markers, crayons, colored pencils, play dough, kid-safe scissors, glue sticks and construction paper.
Emergency contacts
Give us at least one, ideally two, emergency contacts, with the number where you're easiest to reach. The second should be a trusted relative or friend who lives nearby. A laminated contact card in the backpack helps too, with any health conditions or medication needs written clearly.
Label everything
Write your child's name on backpacks, jackets, water bottles and spare clothes so nothing gets lost.
A little comfort from home
A family photo or a small comfort item can help with those first goodbyes. Ask us what works best in your child's classroom.