Your child’s first day at nursery, with a childminder or at pre-school is an exciting time, and probably even more so for you as parents. Amidst the anticipation and a touch of wistfulness, one question usually comes up quite quickly: “Do we actually have everything we need to get started?”

In this guide, we’ll show you which items are really practical for everyday life at nursery, what to look out for when buying a rucksack and why name labels make perfect sense.

❤️ The essentials for getting started

• Easy to open: Lunch boxes, water bottles and rucksacks should be child friendly so that your child can open them independently without getting frustrated.
• A change of clothes: At least one complete set, including socks and underwear, should always be kept in the locker.
• Indoor slippers: Opt for comfortable, non-slip slippers with Velcro fastenings or elasticated straps rather than laces.
• Label everything: Everything, from the smallest sock to the snack box, should be labelled with your child’s name.

The rucksack and the right snack

Having their very own nursery rucksack is the ultimate sign for little ones that they’re now ‘grown up’. It’s not just the design that matters, but the ergonomics too. The rucksack should have a chest strap to prevent the shoulder straps from slipping off their narrow shoulders when they’re running around.

• The lunch box: It should be sturdy, lightweight and, ideally, divided into small compartments. That way, moist fruit won’t mix with dry bread. Be sure to test at home whether your child can open and close the lid by themselves. From experience, we recommend stainless steel lunch boxes.
• The water bottle: ‘Leak proof’ is the key phrase here. A bottle with a simple flip top or straw lid is best suited to small children’s hands. Here, too, we strongly recommend stainless steel water bottles.

Clothes: layering and a change of clothes

At nursery, children paint, run about, climb and sometimes make a bit of a mess. So it’s best not to dress your child in their very best clothes. Comfortable clothing that allows plenty of movement, such as leggings or soft jogging bottoms, is worth its weight in gold.

• A change of clothes: Keep two or three complete sets, including trousers, a top, bodysuit or underwear and socks, in a small bag in the cloakroom locker.
• For outdoors: A good pair of rain trousers, wellies and a rain jacket are essential, as many nurseries take children out into the fresh air in almost any weather.
• Indoor shoes: Your child will be putting their shoes on and taking them off several times a day. Non-slip leather slippers or lightweight slippers with Velcro fastenings can help your child develop their independence.

🛍️ Everything for the big start

To ensure your child starts this new chapter feeling proud and well equipped, you’ll find practical everyday essentials in our shop:

Equipment: Discover child friendly, easy to open lunch boxes from our partner shop Interismo and leak proof water bottles that can withstand even the wildest adventures in the sandpit.

Play & Learn: For naptime at nursery, we have cosy, soft comfort blankets and little grasping toys that can give your toddler a sense of security when Mummy isn’t around.

For parents: Practical wet bags are ideal for carrying dirty or wet spare clothes home safely while keeping odours contained.

Little comforters to help with settling in

Especially in the early days, there may sometimes be tears. This is completely normal. To make the transition easier for your child, it can be a good idea for them to have a little piece of ‘home’ with them at nursery or pre-school. ❤️

Ask the nursery staff whether your child is allowed to bring a small comfort item with them. This could be their favourite cuddly toy, a dummy or a small comfort blanket that smells of you. These familiar objects can provide plenty of comfort and security when your child is missing Mummy.

💡 The most important tip: simply label everything

When 20 children put their rain trousers, wellies and lunch boxes in the cloakroom, things can quickly get mixed up. It can be difficult for carers to know which sock belongs to whom.

Make life easier for yourself: Get some personalised name stickers that are dishwasher and washing machine safe, or use a special fabric stamp. Label every item, including slippers, scarves and water bottles. This can save you money by reducing the chances of belongings getting lost.

Frequently asked questions about starting nursery

Does my child need to be potty trained and out of nappies for nursery?
Not for the crèche, for children under three years old, of course. Even at nursery, from around three years old, many settings will accommodate children who still wear nappies. Every child progresses at their own pace when it comes to potty training. Simply pack enough nappies and wet wipes in your child’s locker.

Which wellies are best for starting nursery?
Make sure the wellies aren’t too heavy or stiff, as this can make it more difficult for children to walk comfortably in them. Models made from natural rubber are often softer and more flexible. Lined wellies are a good option for winter.

Does my child need a special PE kit?
That depends on the particular nursery or school. Usually, it’s enough for children to wear comfortable leggings or jogging bottoms on PE days. Special PE footwear, such as gym shoes or non-slip socks, is sometimes requested, but it’s best to wait for the first parents’ evening or an information sheet from the teachers before buying anything.