What to pack for childcare at Kaleidoscope Kids

What to pack for childcare at Kaleidoscope Kids: a simple parent checklist

Starting childcare is exciting, but the night before the first day many parents realise they have one big question, what do I actually pack?

Families across Goodna, Booval, Logan Central, Redbank and Rothwell ask this all the time. The good news is you do not need to overpack. At Kaleidoscope Kids we include meals, nappies and wipes, so your mornings stay calm instead of stressful.

If your child is preparing for their first day, it can also help to read our guide about what to expect on the first day at childcare. Knowing the routine makes both parents and children feel more relaxed.

You can also read what a typical day at childcare looks like.

The real purpose of the childcare bag

The bag is not for toys or entertainment. Our educators already provide structured activities through our play based learning and early years programs. The bag simply keeps your child comfortable throughout the day, for spills, weather changes and rest time.

Children learn through hands-on activities, including messy play, sensory learning and outdoor exploration. If you are curious why we do so much hands-on learning, you can read about play-based learning activities for toddlers.

Everyday essentials

• A labelled backpack

• A labelled drink bottle (water only)

• Wide brim hat

• Spare clothes (top, bottoms and underwear)

• Light jacket or jumper

• Comfort item if needed (dummy or comforter)

Clothing tips

Childcare is active. Children paint, climb, explore and play outdoors daily. Comfortable clothing helps them participate confidently.

• Dress for play, not photos

• Closed-toe shoes are safest

• Pack extra clothes during toilet training

• Label everything

If your child is starting care very young, you may also find helpful information in our guide to childcare for infants.

Sleep and rest time

Our centres have calm sleep areas and quiet rest spaces. We provide bedding, but some children settle faster with a familiar item.

• Small blanket (optional)

• Dummy in labelled container

Good sleep is important for development. We follow safe rest routines based on child safety guidance. You can also read our safety information about safe sleeping practices for children.

Food and meals

You do not need to pack a lunchbox. All meals and snacks are provided at Kaleidoscope Kids. This removes daily pressure from families and ensures balanced nutrition.

If you are curious what children usually eat or how we approach nutrition, you may like our article on healthy food ideas for young children.

What you do NOT need to bring

• Nappies

• Wipes

• Meals or snacks

• Sunscreen

• Toys

• Educational materials

Helping your child settle

Preparing the bag is only part of starting childcare. Emotional readiness matters more.

Many children experience separation worries at first. This is completely normal. Our educators support children during drop-off and help them build confidence. You can read more about separation anxiety in children and how to make drop-offs easier.

Daily updates and reassurance

We send photo updates so you can see your child learning, playing and making friends during the day. Parents often find this makes returning to work much less stressful.

Social development is one of the biggest benefits of childcare. You can learn more about emotional development in early childhood and how friendships help children grow.

Planning childcare costs

Another big question families ask before starting is fees. The amount you pay depends on your Child Care Subsidy eligibility and how many days your child attends.

You can estimate your weekly out-of-pocket cost using our child care subsidy calculator before enrolment.

If you are unsure how the subsidy works, our simple guide to understanding the Child Care Subsidy explains the basics.

Before the first day

We recommend visiting the centre with your child beforehand. Familiar faces and spaces make the first drop-off easier. You can arrange this through our enrolment and tour page.

Final checklist

• Labelled bag

• Spare clothes

• Hat

• Drink bottle

• Comfort item

• Weather-appropriate clothing

Everything else is provided by us.

Our modern centres are purpose-built with safe outdoor spaces, bright classrooms and calm rest areas so children can explore, learn and enjoy their day.