The essentials ✅
- Nappies (if not yet toilet trained) — bring enough for the full session plus a spare or two
- Nappy bags & wipes — a good supply; we prefer parents provide their own
- At least two changes of clothes — messy play, painting and water activities are part of the fun. Expect laundry.
- Named water bottle — we encourage children to stay hydrated throughout the day
- Any prescribed medication — in original packaging, with a signed consent form from our office
- Sun cream (summer) — applied before drop-off on sunny days; we'll reapply if needed
- Wellies (wet/cold days) — useful for outdoor play; can stay at nursery
Comfort items 🧸
We actively encourage comfort items during the settling-in period — and beyond, for as long as your child needs them. A familiar toy, blanket or dummy can make a big difference to how secure your child feels in a new environment.
- Soft toy or favourite teddy
- Dummy or soother (kept in a named pot)
- Comfort blanket or muslin
- A family photo (can be kept in their bag or on display)
Please label comfort items clearly. We take great care of them, but things do go on adventures.
Label everything 🏷️
This cannot be stressed enough. At nursery, items can end up in the wrong bag or on the wrong peg. Label every single item that comes into nursery — clothing, shoes, bags, bottles, nappy packets, comfort items, everything.
Iron-on labels, stick-on labels or even a permanent marker on a white fabric label all work well. Name, not just initials.
💡 Tip: Write your child's name on the inside of their shoes too. Wellies especially have a habit of going walkabout.
What about food? 🍽️
At Just Little Kidz, we provide all meals and snacks. You do not need to send a packed lunch, snacks or drinks other than a water bottle. Our kitchen team prepares fresh, balanced meals and snacks throughout the day.
Menus are varied, seasonal and cater for all dietary requirements. Please let us know of any allergies, intolerances or dietary preferences at registration — before your child's first day.
What NOT to bring ✗
- Food or snacks from home — we provide all meals; outside food creates allergy risks
- Toys from home (other than comfort items) — small items can be lost or cause upset between children
- Jewellery — including earrings; small items are a choking hazard and can get caught during play
- Electronic devices or tablets — our time is for active, imaginative and social play
- Expensive clothing — art, messy play and outdoor mud are non-negotiable. Please dress your child for adventure.
On the day: a few tips 💛
The first few drop-offs can feel hard — for parents at least as much as children. Here are a few things that help:
- Keep goodbyes short and positive. A long, drawn-out goodbye signals anxiety to your child. Say it, mean it, and go.
- Trust us to settle them. Children often stop crying within minutes of a parent leaving. Your key person will send you an update.
- Arrive on time. Rushed mornings make settling harder. Build a little buffer into your routine.
- Talk about nursery positively at home — even simple things like "your friend at nursery" or "what you painted today" help build a positive association.
📋 Print this packing list
A printable version with tick boxes — perfect for the morning rush.
Come and see us first
A tour is the best way to know what to expect. You'll see the rooms, meet your child's key person and get any outstanding questions answered before the big day.