With kindergarten starting this week, many families are preparing for those first busy mornings.
Knowing what to bring can help your child feel settled, confident and ready to begin their day. Keeping things simple makes the transition easier for everyone.
Below is a guide based on Welcome to Sparkways, New Family Guide to support your child’s first days at kindergarten.
What should my child wear?
Children are active throughout the day and take part in indoor and outdoor learning experiences.
We recommend:
- Comfortable clothing suitable for play and learning
- Clothes that can get messy through art, painting and sensory experiences
- Shoes that are safe for active play and easy for your child to manage
- Please dress your child for the weather and choose items that support independence.
What should we pack each day?
Please ensure all belongings are clearly labelled with your child’s name.
Your child will usually need:
- A backpack or bag
- A drink bottle filled with water
- Lunch and snacks, as required by your service
- A complete change of clothes, including underwear and socks
- Labelling helps children recognise their belongings and reduces lost items.
Hats and outdoor play
Outdoor play is part of every kindergarten day.
When required, children will need:
- A sun-safe hat for outdoor play
Your service will provide guidance on sun protection routines and expectations.
Can we bring comfort items from home
Some children may like to bring a small comfort item, particularly during the early days of kindergarten.
If your child brings a comfort item, please let your educator know. Items should be something your child can manage independently and that is not irreplaceable.
What to leave at home
To support safety and learning, please avoid sending general toys from home unless requested by educators.
We also ask families to avoid sending valuable or special items that may be easily lost.
If you are unsure about what is appropriate to bring, your educators can guide you.
Supporting your child in the early days
There is no need for everything to be perfect in the first days. Children settle best when they feel calm, supported and welcomed.
Read our Starting Kindergarten with Confidence article to learn more about how Sparkways supports children during this time.
If you have any questions, please speak with your local Sparkways centre. Our teams are here to support you and your family.
