Back-to-School Things I’m Loving for a Happier, Healthier Preschool Year
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My daughter just started preschool, which feels both exciting and slightly insane because how is my baby already old enough for this??
We’ve officially entered the world of tiny backpacks, indoor shoes, packed lunches, labelled EVERYTHING, and somehow keeping track of approximately 47 things that belong to one small person.
Since we’re still very new to the preschool routine, I thought I’d share a few of the things I’m loving so far — the little things that are making things easier, keeping her items organized, and helping us feel a little more prepared going into the school year.
These are the things I actually bought and use, plus a few things I think are worth adding to your back-to-school list.
This has become one of those products I cannot live without.
I’ve been using hypochlorous acid spray as an easy way to disinfect and freshen up things that come home from preschool — especially after a day of touching approximately everything.
I love having something simple that I can reach for without making a whole production out of cleaning.
It’s one of those little mom-life things that just makes me feel better during cold and flu season.
The exact one I purchase // affiliate link
Packing lunch for preschool is a whole new skill.
I wanted something that was easy for her to open herself, kept everything separated, and didn’t require me to pack five tiny containers every morning.
Enter: the bento box.
I’m a big fan of anything that makes packing a toddler/preschooler lunch feel slightly less chaotic. I can throw in a few different things she likes, and she can see everything at once.
And honestly, anything that encourages a picky preschooler to actually eat lunch gets my vote.
My favourite brand for these // affiliate link
A cute little backpack was obviously non-negotiable.
But I also wanted something that was an appropriate size for her, easy for her to carry, and had enough room for the random assortment of preschool necessities + items that are sent home.
There’s something about seeing your little one walking into school with their own backpack that makes the whole “my baby is going to preschool” thing feel VERY real.
4. Matching Mom & Me Bracelets
Okay, this one admittedly is less practical and more for my heart.
We got matching bracelets for the two of us and I love the idea that she has a little reminder of me with her while she’s at school — and I have one too. I told her when we wear them and we're apart, it's like we are still together, and we won't miss each other. I think it was more for me honestly, but I swear it's worked so far! After the first day, she took it off once she got in the car and said "I don't need this anymore since we're together now" [tears of joy]
A few of my favourite options are here and here but you could find these anywhere! Lots of different options too, doesn't have to be a bracelet.
5. Labels. ALL THE LABELS.
If it can leave the house, it gets a label.
Backpack? Labelled.
Water bottle? Labelled.
Lunch containers? Labelled.
Shoes? Labelled.
Clothing? You guessed it.
I ordered a pack of mabels labels, IYKYK. // affiliate link
6. Indoor Shoes
Indoor shoes were another preschool requirement that I actually ended up appreciating.
I wanted something comfortable, easy for little hands to get on and off, and sturdy enough for a full day of running around.
We have been buying these shoes for YEARS and I LOVE them for pre-school!! SO many cute options too.
A few other things that I think are worth having on hand:
A water bottle: One that your child can actually open and close independently. This is one area where independence matters more than aesthetics. We love these Thermos brand ones. // affiliate link
A few extra outfits: Because preschool + food + paint + playground + bathroom accidents = you just never know.
A little stash of hair ties/clips: If your child has long hair, keeping a few extras in their backpack is a lifesaver.
A washable wet bag: For the inevitable dirty/wet clothes situation. Much nicer than throwing everything into a plastic bag.
A simple lunch bag: Even if your bento fits inside, having an insulated bag for keeping everything together isn't a bad idea! My daughters backpack came with a matching one.
A little comfort item for home: Not necessarily something they take to school, but something familiar and comforting waiting for them when they get home. Starting preschool is a big transition, and sometimes the after-school decompression is just as important as the morning routine.
And My Biggest Back-to-School Recommendation?
Don't feel like you need to buy everything.
I know back-to-school content can make it feel like there are 800 things your child apparently needs in order to successfully attend preschool.
There aren't.
A few things that make your mornings easier, help your child feel independent, and make you feel prepared are enough.
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