Starting Kindergarten and Preschool

The first morning with a small backpack and great excitement often remains in families' memories for a long time. The search for "starting kindergarten & daycare" therefore usually doesn't begin with a packing list, but with questions: Will my child feel comfortable? What do they really need? And how can the first few mornings be less hectic?

The good news: Children don't need to be perfectly prepared for starting kindergarten. Familiar routines, a few well-fitting items, and parents who exude confidence are much more helpful. Especially in the first few weeks, daily life can be simpler than usual.

Starting Kindergarten and Daycare Takes Time

Whether it's a crèche, daycare, or kindergarten: The settling-in period is different for every child. Some children eagerly enter the group room, while others need several weeks to separate from a familiar caregiver. Both are normal. What's crucial is that parents take the facility's rhythm and their child's signals seriously.

It's helpful to practice the walk to daycare together before the first day. This turns an unfamiliar place into a familiar route. Short conversations also help: What happens after arrival? Who will greet you? When will I pick you up? Concrete, simple answers provide orientation. Grand promises like "You don't have to be sad at all", on the other hand, create unnecessary pressure. Better to say: "You can be sad. Your educator is with you, and I'll be back after lunch."

A small farewell ritual can ease the transition. This could be a hug, a phrase, or a quick look through the window. It should be loving but clear. Long goodbyes make separation harder for many children, even if it's understandably not easy for parents.

What Really Needs to Come on the First Day of Daycare

The facility usually informs parents about what items are needed. Nevertheless, it's worth getting everything ready and labeling it early. Especially with multiple similar jackets, water bottles, and rain pants, a name will save a lot of searching later.

For everyday use, equipment that children can operate themselves as much as possible is proven to be effective. A backpack should be lightweight, fit well, and have an easy closure. For a lunchbox, compartments are practical if fruit, bread, and small snacks need to be kept separate. Children can see at a glance what they can eat and don't have to open many packages first.

A water bottle should also close reliably, be leak-proof, and be easy to open. Especially at the beginning, it makes sense to practice opening and closing it a few times at home. This strengthens independence and prevents frustration in the group. Durable, easy-to-clean companions relieve families not only in the first week but throughout many daycare days.

A sensible basic equipment includes: