I get a lot of email asking for a list of things to get started in daycare. Because the needs of each child care is unique, state licensing requirements are different in various areas, and there's a different set of needs if you have toddlers than if you have 4-year-olds, it's impossible to have a "Standard List" that suits everyone. This is a guideline to get you started.
Research Before You Begin
*Keep in constant prayer about your decision and for provision.
*Discuss Daycare with your family. This will mean they will have to share their space AND their Mom (and/or Dad).
*Research your state daycare regulations. You can start with this resource from National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care
*Find other daycare providers in your area and ask them for advice.
*Contact your local Child And Adult Care Food Program.
| Caring For Toddlers & Twos | |
| changing table | |
| playpen | |
| high chair | |
| bibs | |
| sippy cups | |
| potty chair | |
| potty seat | |
| simple art supplies Caring For Any Ages General Toys (stick with classic stuff): books, cars, Legos, soft toys, blacks, dolls, dishes, rattles, etc. Outdoor Toys: balls, slides, push toys, trucks, sand/dirt play toys, etc. wash clothes for little faces time out spot child-size plates, forks, spoons, etc. sleeping mats or cots blankets, pillows, sheets gates to keep kids in an area carpet sweeper & good vacuum cordless phone and/or cell phone answering machine or voice mail small table & chairs spray bottle filled with white vinegar (use to clean counters, tables, high chairs, etc.) spray bottle with 25 drops of lavender oil (essential oil at health food store) and water, use before nap on bedding and in room for calming |
Keep In Mind
I didn't start out with all the equipment at once and I didn't need it all at once, either. It was worth it for me to just find the equipment at the thrift stores and yard sales. Until I got the stuff I needed at a good price, I asked the parents to bring their own play pens, swings, etc. This was nice because I got to try out different brands of stuff and look for what I really liked.
I used to think I needed 2 or 3 exersaucers and bouncy seats. But I found out I don't because I rotate the infants from one thing to the other. I did have 2 of each of these things and it just cluttered up the space, so I sold them and have been very happy since.
