Essential Childcare Checklist for a Smooth Transition
Starting childcare is a big milestone for your child and you.
A little preparation can make the first day feel calm, organised and positive. Here’s a simple childcare checklist to help you feel confident and ready.
Before the First Day
In the days leading up to your child’s start date:
1. Confirm enrolment details
- Start date and booked days
- Drop-off and pick-up times
- Room allocation (Nursery, Toddler or Preschool)
- Centre contact details
2. Complete your paperwork early
- Enrolment forms
- Immunisation history statement
- Emergency contacts
- Authorised pick-up list
- Medical management plans (if required)
Completing everything early helps educators support your child properly from day one.
3. What to Pack for Childcare (Clearly Labelled)
Packing doesn’t need to be complicated. Many children have similar belongings, so clearly labelling items helps educators return them quickly.
Most families bring:
- Backpack (labelled)
- 2–3 changes of clothes (including socks and underwear)
- A labelled water bottle
- A wide-brim hat
- Sunscreen (if your centre requests / if families prefer their own)
- Nappies and wipes (if your centre requests them)
- Nappy rash cream (with signed permission if required)
- Bed linen
- A comfort item (dummy, soft toy, blanket)
Even if your child is toilet trained, spare clothes are important, messy play and water activities are part of learning.
Extra items depending on age
For babies (0–2 years):
- Bottles / formula (if needed)
- Breastmilk (labelled, with instructions)
- Bibs
- Sleep sack (if required)
For toddlers/preschoolers:
- Spare shoes (optional but helpful)
- Training pants (if toilet training)
Quick First Day Checklist
Screenshot this before you go:
- Paperwork completed
- Immunisation statement provided
- Medical plans submitted (if applicable)
- Spare clothes packed
- Hat and labelled water bottle packed
- Comfort item included
- Everything clearly labelled
- Educators informed of routines and any additional needs
Being organised helps the morning run smoothly and helps you feel calm too.
If you have any questions about preparing for your child’s first day, our team is always happy to help.
