Saturday, August 13, 2011

What do you pack in the diaper bag for daycare?

I am a licensed child care provider in my home. If you are wondering if you have too much or not enough it might be best to ask your care provider. Personally, for me, the less that parents send with their babies daily the better. I prefer to keep a package of diapers at my house (provided by the parents and I let them know when I'm running low). I buy wipes by the case and don't need parents to send any daily unless the child has a special need such as is allergic to all but one brand. I have had some parents who don't use wipes and send a daily supply of baby washcloths which I use once than place in a plastic bag to send home. I have a large supply of cups of all types, plates, bowls, silverware, and bibs. I prefer parents leave these things at home as I have plenty of everything. That way nothing of theirs is mixed up with anything of mine nor does anything of theirs get left behind. The only thing I need daily for babies is a couple of changes of clothing, outdoor clothing suitable for the weather since we nearly always go outside daily, and any "lovey" they may need for comfort or naps. I prefer all toys to remain at home for several reasons. First, things can get lost or broken. Second, I have a very large and varied supply of toys and supplies for all ages of children from infants to school age children. Lastly, children, especially toddlers, have some sharing issues and it is usually cause for problems when children bring their own personal toys from home. In regards to food and formula, I prefer to have a container of formula left at my house along with 2-3 bottles that stay. If babies are eating jarred food than I like to keep a week's supply of food on hand. After 12 months I provide all food and beverages for the children. All daycare homes and centers have their own way of handling supplies so it's always best to discuss your baby's needs with your care providers. If they are fine with all that stuff coming daily than that's great, but if you don't need to bring it than it could save you some time and effort. Most of my families have a bag packed for daycare that is different in content than their normal diaper bag they might take with them if they are headed off to eat dinner out or visit grandma. ADDED: In regards to blankets, unless the child has a specific one he/she likes to sleep with I don't have parents send any from home. I have multiple sheets, blankets, and pillows that I have on hand for naps and resting periods. I have crib sheets for infants that fit the two pack-n-play cribs I have. The way I figure it, the more stuff I have for each baby the greater chance there is that it will get left behind, mixed up with another child's, or mixed up with my own things.

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