This post is all about preschool essentials.
Are you new to parenthood or preparing to send your little one off to preschool? It’s an exciting but overwhelming milestone that can leave you with many questions about what your child needs to be ready. From clothing to supplies, the choices can be daunting when researching preschool essentials. To help you get started, this guide will provide an overview of essential items to help make your child’s preschool experience the best it can be. We will cover topics such as comfort items, accessories, school supplies, and more. So don’t stress! With the help of this guide, you can ensure your child is well-prepared for their first day.
Your child’s school will likely provide you with a list of items they need, but here is a list to ensure you’re fully prepared!
As a means for providing for my family I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the links on this page.
PRESCHOOL ESSENTIALS – EVERYTHING YOUR CHILD NEEDS WHEN STARTING PRESCHOOL
1. backpack
Backpack is an obviously preschool essential. They’ll need to this transport their lunch, snacks, schoolwork, and nap items. I love this Simple Modern brand because of the quality, pockets, and size. I also love that it comes in so many different patterns, so your little preschooler can pick one that they LOVE. Having a fun new backpack can also help combat the separation anxiety at drop-off. (It always helped my daughter to have a fun backpack or new outfit that she was excited about.)
- KIDS BACKPACK FOR SCHOOL & DAYCARE: Sized for toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergartners ages 3 and up – the right fit for little shoulders carrying snacks, a tablet, and a lunch box to school, daycare, or weekend trips.
- SPACIOUS 12L CAPACITY: Measures 14.4″x10.4″x5.9″ – roomy enough for a tablet, water bottle, snacks, school folders, and our Hadley kids lunch box (sold separately) for a coordinated backpack and lunch box set.
- SCHOOL READY ORGANIZATION: A padded tablet sleeve, large zip-closure front pocket, zip stash pocket, and two expandable side bottle sleeves keep folders, snacks, and water bottles organized and easy to grab on the way out the door.
- BUILT FOR REAL DAYS: Made from easy-to-clean polyester with padded, adjustable shoulder straps and reinforced stitching – wipes clean with a damp cloth after the spilled juice and lunchroom messes that come with the school year.
2. Insulated lunch Box
The school will likely not refrigerate the packed lunches, so you’ll want to get an insulated lunchbox to carry their lunch and snack items. Bentgo Brand makes great ones. And they fit the kid’s Bento Boxes perfectly. There’s also tons of pattern options perfect for any boy or girl.
- #1 Brand Pick Kids Lunch Bags*: Premium materials and refined details pair with ultra-thick, double insulation to help keep meals fresh longer. Thoughtfully designed for kids ages…
- Lightweight, Durable, & Kid-Friendly: Built to withstand everyday adventures with water-resistant fabric, padded thermal lining, and smooth zippers made for little hands. Reusable…
- So Many Ways Kids can Carry: Designed for flexibility with an adjustable shoulder strap, carrying handle, and buckle handle to clip securely onto a backpack for hands-free travel.
- Build Your Bentgo Squad: Coordinates with Bentgo lunch boxes, backpacks, water bottles, and utensils. Roomy enough for a lunch box plus snacks, with interior and exterior pockets…
- Purpose Beyond the Purchase: Giving back is part of who we are. Bentgo proudly supports Feed the Children, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing meals and resources to children and…
3. bento Box
Bento boxes are an absolute must in my book. And the Bentgo brand are my favorites. I have 3 of them that I rotate throughout the week to make sure I always have a clean one ready to pack the night before. Not only are bento boxes for kids great, but the different compartments force me to pack a balanced meal with some variety. As an added bonus, it’s always satisfying seeing the final packed lunch, full of color!
- #1 Bento Box Brand*: Thoughtfully designed and parent-tested, Bentgo Kids is loved for a reason. Five just-right compartments hold 2.4 cups total—perfect for growing appetites on…
- Helps Keep Leaks in Check: A secure, leak-proof lid and separate compartments help keep lunches fresh and mess-free. Latches are easy for little hands to open and close to help…
- Built to Handle Real Life: Lightweight with rubber-coated edges, this lunch box is made to handle everyday drops and bumps. It fits neatly into lunch bags and backpacks for school…
- Easy to Heat & Clean: The removable tray is microwave safe for warm-ups and top-rack dishwasher safe for easy cleanup. Made with BPA- and PFAS-free, food-safe materials…
4. ice Packs
You’ll need some icepacks to keep your preschooler’s lunch fresh. Bentgo Brand takes the cake on this one too! They come in 10 different shapes to make lunch time extra fun. My preschooler picked the Fairy ones, which are super cute!
- Kid-Approved: Add a touch of personality to lunchtime with this 4-piece set of ice packs in unique kid-friendly designs and bright colors. They’re easy to mix and match with…
- Quick-Freezing & Long-Lasting: Ready to go when you are on busy mornings and long days, these lunch box ice packs keep food and drinks cold for up to 4 hours. They’re ideal for…
- Slim, Space-Saving Design: At just around 0.5” thick, they slip neatly into lunch boxes, bags, or a cooler—maximizing space for more food and snacks without sacrificing…
- Purpose Beyond the Purchase: Giving back is part of who we are. Bentgo proudly supports Feed the Children, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing meals and resources to children and…
5. Spill-Proof Water Cup
You’ll need to send them to preschool with a spill-proof water cup every day. You likely already have some of these stocked up, but if not, you’ll need to get a few. I highly recommend the THERMOS FUNTAINER. Not only to they come in lots of fun designs, but you can completely pop out the straw area and clean it through the dishwasher. So there’s no hidden mold anywhere! To top it off, you can buy replacement straws, so you can switch out the straw/sipper periodically. (A set of two replacement straws are only $4.99 right now!)
- Stays cold: Thermos stainless steel water bottles for kids keep drinks cold for up to 12 hours with our vacuum insulation technology; our kids water bottles are built so drinks are…
- Kid-friendly design: This reusable stainless steel kids water bottle is lightweight and compact, with a push-button lid that makes it easy to carry and open; includes an integrated…
- Daily durability: Our leak proof when closed water bottles for school & everyday use are made with high-quality 18/8 stainless steel construction to handle drops, dings and provide…
- Easy care and cleaning: Hygienically covered pop-up straw that’s also removable for easy cleaning; Thermos kids water bottle is dishwasher safe and BPA-free, though washing by…
- Protect what you love: With 120 years of heritage, Thermos Brand food and beverage containers keep things fresh, sealed and protected; trusted since 1904 because our products help…
6. Water-Proof Labels
You’ll need to label all of your child’s belongings when sending them to preschool. (Lunchboxes, water cups, bento boxes, etc.) Having water-proof labels like these make it MUCH easier!
- Versatile for daycare & home: Perfect for daycare, school, and home use — ideal for labeling baby bottles, lunch boxes, snack containers, toys, stationery, and more. Helps parents and teachers keep kids’ belongings organized and easy to identify.
- Waterproof & dishwasher safe: Dishwasher and microwave safe — the self-laminating film creates a strong protective barrier that keeps names clear and readable after washing, sterilizing, or refrigerating. No fading, no peeling, and no ink smudges.
- Easy to use in seconds: Just write, peel, and seal — a quick 3-step labeling process for busy parents. The smooth writing surface works with any permanent marker, making labeling fast and mess-free.
- Strong adhesion that lasts: Engineered with a premium adhesive that sticks firmly to plastic, glass, and metal surfaces without falling off — even after repeated washing and handling. Removable without sticky residue. (Note: not for silicone or fabric materials.)
- Complete label set in two practical sizes: Includes 6 sheets with 64 high-quality name labels — 32 large (2.36″ × 0.63″) and 32 small (1.28″ × 0.63″), perfectly sized for both long and short names. Ideal for labeling baby bottles, lunch boxes, and all daycare essentials.
7. Crib Sheet
No, you’re preschool will not sleep in a crib at naptime, but the crib sheets fit the cots that they use. (Most daycare centers have cots for the children to take naps on, but check with your specific school.) I swear by these sheets because they are SO buttery soft! It comes in a 2-pack with lots of fun pattern options to fit your little one’s personality.
- SOFT & SAFE FOR BABIES & TODDLERS：Made from premium, hypoallergenic fabric, these crib sheets are perfect for newborns, infants, and toddlers. The gentle, breathable material…
- PERFECT FIT FOR CRIB MATTRESSES：Designed specifically for cribs, these crib mattress sheets feature elastic edges for a secure, snug fit on standard crib mattresses. No slipping…
- DURABLE & EASY TO CLEAN FOR BUSY PARENTS：These baby crib sheets are machine washable, quick-drying, and resistant to wear and tear, making them a practical choice for moms and…
- COMFORTABLE FOR PLAYTIME & SLEEP：Whether it’s naptime, bedtime, or playtime, these sheets provide a soft and supportive surface for babies and kids. The breathable fabric helps…
- STYLISH DESIGNS FOR EVERY NURSERY：Available in a variety of colors and patterns, these crib sheets complement any nursery decor. From playful prints for toddlers to soothing…
8. nap Time Blanket
Any of their blankets from home would be a good choice. Preferably a blanket they use often and would find some comfort in while away from home. Or if your school doesn’t offer cots, you’ll want to grab a Nap Mat (with built in pillow and blanket)
- Extra-Large and Thick: Compared with similar mats for kids, our sleeping mat is extra large and thicker, measuring 21″ x 53″ . This size is ideal as it can accommodate kids of most…
- Comfortable and Soft: Our nap mat with pillow and blanket is made with high-quality poly microfiber. Materials that are free of harsh chemicals, super soft. No worry about getting…
- Convenience Design: Carrying handle, Secure strap closure, Name tag with clear window included for easy identification. The kids nap mat can be rolled up, Its travel-friendly…
- Easy Care: This nap mat is machine washable. Place your nap mat in a washer in cold water on a gentle cycle and tumble dry on low heat, do not iron, do not bleach.
9. comfortable Shoes
Open-toed shoes are not typically allowed at preschool because it can be a safety hazard when they’re on the playground. You’ll want to ensure they have a comfortable pair of shoes that will be good for lots of running around! Get ones that are easy to take on and off as well! You don’t want to be dealing with that struggle in the morning, and you won’t want to put the preschool teachers in a frustrating situation with difficult shoes! (They typically keep their shoes on all day, but kids will be kids.)
- Hook and loop closure provides precise and secure fit
- Suede and mesh upper
- Eva removable footbed
- Non-marking outsole with M Select GRIP for superior traction
10. Wet Dry Bags
Even when children are potty-trained, accidents are bound to happen. So you’ll need a Wet Dry Bag to keep in your kids cubby.
- Fashion , Reusable&Waterproof , Durability : A trim and attractive design. ALVABABY wet/dry bag are made from waterproof 100% polyester, put dirty cloth diapers in a wet bag. Comes with handle for easy carrying or attaching to your diaper bag or stroller.
- Longevity Zippered : TWO Zippered compartments for keep wet and dry things separate. Each bag contains a “wet” section that is sewn and sealed for no wicking or leaking.
11. Extra Clothes (Including Underwear)
These preschool essentials are often forgotten about! Your preschooler will need an extra set of clothes (including underwear) to keep at school incase of an accident.
12. Lunch and Snack Items
Stock up on all the favorite snack and lunch items! If you haven’t already, try out Amazon Fresh! Amazon Fresh offers grocery delivery on TONS products – from a complete grocery selection to everyday essentials, toys, gifts and more.
I also really like using these re-usable snack bags. Not only is it better for the environment, but as an added bonus…it saves money from constantly re-buying plastic bags! And yes, they are dishwasher safe!
13. sunscreen
Especially during the summer months, you’ll need to send a bottle of sunscreen to your child’s preschool. Keep in mind that most preschools will not allow the aerosol bottles. My preschooler has very sensitive skin, and I also just try to stay away from highly toxic brands. So after some research, Blue Lizard has become one of my favorite sunscreen brands to use on my preschooler, and for our whole family.
14. Diapers, Wipes, Diaper Cream
If your child isn’t potty trained yet, you’ll need to send diapers, wipes and diaper cream to school. Some preschools may require your preschooler to be potty trained before they start, so definitely check with them. (Check out this post of the 15 Best Potty Training Books for Parents and Toddlers!)
15. Seasonal Outerwear
Your preschooler will get outside time year round, as long as the weather is safe. So you’ll need to be prepared with heavy coats, mittens and hats for winter, and light jackets for the spring and fall months.
16. Any Needed Medication
If your child requires any daily medication that will need to be administered by the school staff, make sure that is documented and communicated to the school director and staff.
17. preschool Resource Bundle
Make sure your toddler is ready for preschool with this 100 page Toddler/Preschooler Resource Bundle!
100 Page Instant-Download Printable Bundle full of resources for toddlers-preschool age kids and their parents!
Includes great learning activities for indoor activities, planners, chore chart options, daily learning calendar, kindness BINGO, emotions chart, mathematics packets for each season, scissor activities, and more!
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