10 Things to Pack for Your Child’s 1st Day at Nursery

Wow – their first day at nursery is coming around – where does the time go!? This special time is a momentous little milestone, and a big one for you too. One minute they’re giving you their first toothless grin, then the next they’ve got a backpack on their back and a world of tiny friendships, little learning moments and super cute finger-painting masterpieces ahead of them.

Yes, there may be tears (mostly from you!). So, take a deep breath, take a pack of tissues for yourself after drop off, and take this lovingly compiled list of nursery bag must-haves to help you both feel ready.

We’ll always be by your side to make every big (and little) moment feel extraordinary, so as well as having all the essentials they’ll need, you’ll find a few sweet touches from My 1st Years to make it extra special. The best of all? We personalise each and every perfect creation, which is not only the cutest touch, but is super helpful at a preschool and nursery setting, as it means their belongings will always stay in the right hands. 

A Personalised Backpack to Hold Everything Perfectly

Every nursery adventure starts with the perfect bag. Our personalised backpacks are just the right size for little growing shoulders, with adjustable straps that grow with them and padding to keep them as comfy as can be. Inside, there’s always plenty of room for nappies, spares and of course their cuddly friend that they can’t leave home without. Personalisation means there’ll be no mix-ups in the cubbyhole, and our durable materials are made for messy, magical days ahead.

Nappies, Wipes and Cream

If your little one isn’t quite potty trained yet, be sure to pack:

• A few nappies (we’d personally pack a nappy for every hour and a half they’re there for, as this should cover them for any extra eventualities too!)
• A pack of baby wipes (stick to whatever wipes you usually use, so you know that they’ll be kind against their skin).
• Nappy cream or barrier balm (again, make sure it’s one you already use to avoid skin breakouts. And always make sure it’s labelled with their name.

Most nurseries ask for these to be restocked regularly, so having a labelled pouch or zip bag makes handover nice and easy.

Their Most-Loved Comforter or Cuddly Friend

Even the most confident explorers sometimes need a cuddle buddy when things feel new. Plus, if they still have their daily nap, it’s a good idea for them to have something snuggly to snooze off with. Whether it’s a soft bunny, a squishy dinosaur, or a well-worn blankie – make space for something familiar and loved.

Our personalised soft toys and baby blankets are nursery bag favourites, and a great way to bring a little bit of home wherever they go. Plus, the extra-cute customisation makes sure they’ll always end up back in the right hands after a fun day at nursery.

Spare Clothes (for All the Messy Moments)

Nursery is full of hands-on fun, from muddy outdoor play to paint-splattered masterpieces. A full change of clothes (or two, or three!) is essential – so pack a spare vest, top, trousers, socks and a jumper to make sure they’re ready for whatever the day has in store. If they’re potty trained, or training, then lots of spare pants will also be a handy extra in case of accidents.

If it’s particularly wet and rainy, a pair of waterproof trousers (as well as a rain mac, of course) will help them from getting too soggy! Psst… have you seen our personalised rain coats? They’re fleece lined, waterproof and made for little adventurers to enjoy every day in comfort.

Make sure everything’s labelled with their name and then pop them into their backpack for easy access. 

Sun Hat and Winter Woollies

On the theme of clothing… you can never be too prepared for the British weather – no matter the time of the year! A sunhat and labelled sun cream are essentials during the warmer months, while a snug hat, mittens and extra layers will keep them toasty come winter. On rainy days, let them play about in a pair of wellies. Our waterproof welly boots come in cute colours with matching coats so they can really make a splash in style.

Tip: Pop everything into a weather bag or labelled zip pouch so the nursery team can grab what they need quickly when it’s time for playground adventures and outdoor fun.

A Lunchbox or Snack Box

Some nurseries don’t provide meals, and sometimes you can choose to take your own… in that case you’ll want to send along a healthy lunch or selection of snacks, ones that are easy-to-eat, low-mess and full of their favourites.

Our personalised lunchboxes are a huge hit – just the right size for little appetites and designed to stand out on a shelf of lookalikes. Plus, they have handy little compartments inside, great for fussy eaters who don’t want their foods touching. Add their name and pick out their favourite theme (dinosaur, unicorn, or rocket ship – just to name a few!), and they’ll love opening a lunchbox that’s just for them.

A Water Bottle That’s All Theirs

Hydration is key for busy little bees! Choose a nursery-friendly bottle – one that’s easy to open, spill-proof and toddler-tough. Psst… our refillable water bottles always stand up the challenge and come in so many playful designs.

Our personalised water bottles are designed with mini hands in mind and help your child stay hydrated throughout the day. Personalisation means no mix-ups and a lot more independence as they get used to nursery routines. Plus, if you want a matchy-matchy set up, we’ve got lots with coordinating lunch boxes and snack bags.

Any Comforting Routine Items

If your little one is still having milk, make sure your nursery has enough of their specific formula and bottles to give this. Again make sure it’s all labelled with an extra note of their current routine and times they may need it. As well as milk, other things they may need for comfort are:

• A dummy
• Their favourite blanket
• A bottle or sippy cup for milk (if still part of their routine)

Little ones love routine – and familiar nap-time items can make all the difference when it comes to settling in for a snooze in a new place.

A Wet Bag

Spills, splashes and… surprises – they happen. A waterproof wet bag means that any used clothes can be sent home safely, without making a mess of the rest of their things.

You can also pop in a few biodegradable nappy bags – most nurseries will have their own, but it never hurts to be extra prepared.

A Little Something From You

Whether it’s a tiny note, a drawing from home, or a tiny photograph of you – this will be a lovely little reminder they can keep in their bag that you’re always close, even when you're not right there beside them.

Looking for the perfect nursery-ready pieces?

Explore our nursery essentials collection – including personalised backpacks, lunchboxes, soft toys and keepsakes designed to help your little one feel confident, cared for, and uniquely them on their very first day of preschool or nursery.