Essential checklist for starting nursery

Preparing for nursery: the essentials not to forget

Starting nursery is an important step for your baby… and for you as a parent. Between the emotions and the practical questions, it’s easy to forget some essentials. Here is a complete checklist to support you through this transition with peace of mind.

Spare clothes: the basic must-have in the nursery bag

At nursery, babies live, play, eat… and sometimes get messy. It is therefore essential to provide several changes of clothes to ensure their comfort throughout the day:

• 2 to 3 bodysuits (depending on the weather, long or short sleeves)
• 2 comfortable trousers or leggings
• 1 T-shirt or light jumper
• 1 seasonal cardigan or jacket
• 1 extra pair of socks

Tip: favour clothes that are easy to put on (press-studs, soft fabrics) and without too many details (ribbons, decorative buttons) to make changing easier for nursery staff.

Toiletries and hygiene items

Nurseries often ask parents to bring certain specific hygiene items. Always check the list provided by the setting, but here are the commonly requested essentials:

• Diapers (quantity defined by the nursery)
• Wipes or cotton wool + oleo-calcareous liniment according to preference
• Diaper cream (if needed to prevent redness)
• Sunscreen in summer (baby formula)
• A small toiletry kit (for practical storage)

The comforter and reassuring object: a key reference

The well-known comforter can make all the difference in soothing a baby during the first days of separation. Even if all nurseries accept it, make sure that:

• It is always the same one (avoid improvised replacements)
• It is washed regularly (provide an identical spare if possible)
• It carries the smell of home for the first days (this reassures the baby)

You can also add a pacifier if the child uses one, or a cotton muslin with your scent. The important thing is to create a reassuring link between home and nursery.

Meals, baby bottle and breastfeeding: according to baby’s needs

Depending on your child’s age and feeding method, prepare:

• Baby bottle(s) of milk (name marked on each item)
• Powdered milk dispenser box (if not breastfeeding)
• Small jars or homemade purees (label with the date)
• Spoon suitable for meals

For breastfeeding mothers, the nursery may ask you to provide expressed breast milk in a sterile, dated container. To make feeding times easier during adaptation or visits, a cape d’allaitement Doomoo such as the Grey version or the Chocolat version allows discreet breastfeeding in the reception room, for example.

And to soothe sensitive nipples, particularly during pumping periods, the Lansinoh Pack Promo Soin Allaitement is a valuable ally.

Useful items for daily life

Some small items will make your baby’s day at nursery even more comfortable:

• A bib or bandana (have several per day)
• A spare pacifier (marked with their name)
• A teether ring like the Ludi one, if the baby is teething
• A sleeping bag if the nursery does not provide sleep items
• A small bag or tote to store all these items (preferably washable)

According to baby’s age

For babies from 3 to 6 months

At this age, needs remain very close to the home routine. Starting nursery can be done gently with:

• Diapers suited to their shape
• A crossover bodysuit that’s easy to put on
• A muslin or garment carrying the scent of mum or dad

Some babies at this age start dribbling or chewing a lot. The Ludi Anneau de Dentition Clés 3mois+ offers safe relief that is easy to handle, while being colourful.

From 6 months

The baby explores more, often eats purees, and sometimes naps alone. Consider:

• Meal items (bibs, spoon, food according to protocol)
• A complete change of clothes because meals are messier
• A named sleeping bag (light cotton or padded depending on the season)

They may start to develop stronger attachment cues: the comforter, a small cloth book or a sensory object can help them structure their days.

From 12 months to 2 years

The child often starts walking, saying a few words, and asking for specific things. They may:

• Wear soft shoes (with Velcro) or adapted soft slippers
• Use a spoon independently at meals
• Become attached to a routine: try to reproduce it as closely as possible at nursery (nap after lunch, etc.)

Starting daycare can also coincide with the first molar teething: a teething ring remains useful up to 18-24 months.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Forgetting to label belongings: a common oversight, but all daycares ask for this to avoid losses.
• Putting on clothes that are too dressy or fragile: choose practical, washable items.
• Not informing staff of changes (sleep, teeth, health): regular communication helps staff support your baby better.
• Not following food storage instructions: always follow recommendations carefully (cold chain, dated portions).

FAQ: your most common questions

When should I prepare the daycare bag?

Ideally pack it the night before, checking that all clothes are clean, labelled and complete. Keep a list on the fridge so you don’t forget anything.

Should I provide several comforters?

Yes, it is recommended. One comforter stays at the daycare, a second stays at home, both identical, washed regularly but never both at the same time.

Do I need to provide meals if my baby is breastfeeding?

Yes, you can express your milk and prepare it in suitable, dated containers. Breastfeeding is compatible with daycare, according to their health protocols.

How many spare outfits should I bring?

At least two complete outfits, especially for young babies. For toddlers, add spares if messy meals or activities are planned.

My baby doesn’t like daycare, what should I do?

This is normal during the settling-in period. Talk to your baby, give a reassuring object, involve the staff by sharing your observations. The transition is gradual.

What if my baby is teething?

Inform the daycare, and slip a teething ring into their bag to ease uncomfortable moments.

Does the daycare accept washable diapers?

Some establishments do, others don’t. It’s better to discuss this in advance. Then provide a waterproof bag for soiled diapers.

Should I give a diaper cream even if there is no irritation?

Yes, some daycares apply it as prevention. Ask about their routine and clearly mark the tube with the name.

My baby has a temporary treatment, what should I do?

Bring the prescription, the medicine, and sign the authorisation if the daycare allows administration. Never include a treatment without written notification.

What type of bag should I use?

A soft bag, large enough to hold the day’s essentials, washable, easy to spot (name added). Avoid rigid or awkward bags that are difficult for staff to handle.