First First Day of School Checklist 📝

Starting school is a big milestone — and having the right essentials on hand makes the transition so much smoother. Here’s a handy checklist to help you and your child feel prepared for that exciting first day:

🎒 Backpack Basics

• Comfortable, lightweight backpack (big enough for a folder and lunchbox) - design or simple

  • Quick reminder: while it’s adorable and might be requested by the school, be wary of adding children’s names in a visible spot on their backpack. Opt to add a removable label on the interior or back-touching side for safety.

• Labeled water bottle

• Lunchbox/snack bag (with easy-to-open containers)

• Change of clothes (accidents, spills, or muddy playgrounds happen!)

  • Opt for something simple like a dress or T-Shirt and jeans

🧸 Comfort + Extras

• Family photo or small comfort item (if the school allows)

• Hand sanitizer or wipes

• Tissues (a travel pack is perfect)

✏️ Classroom Supplies

(check with your school’s list — every place is different)

• Crayons or colored pencils

• Glue sticks

• Safety scissors

• Markers

• Pencils + erasers (the classroom or teacher will have a sharpener for your mini!)

• A folder for teacher notes and papers

👕 Clothing + Gear

• Weather-appropriate outfit (that your child can manage for bathroom breaks)

• Extra sweater or jacket (classrooms can be chilly)

• Sturdy shoes (velcro or slip-on for younger kids is easiest)

🏫 Paperwork + Logistics

• School forms completed (emergency contact, allergies, permissions)

• Labeled supplies and clothing (use name stickers or a fabric marker)

• Transportation details confirmed (drop-off, pickup, bus info)

✅ Pro tip: Do a trial run the week before — pack the backpack, open containers, and practice putting shoes and jackets on. It helps kids feel more confident on the big day.

💡 Remember: the first day is about comfort and confidence, not perfection. A smile, a hug, and a quick goodbye routine will be the most important things you send your child with.

Any suggestions to add? Tell us! Email Millburn.Mamas.Minis@gmail.com to contribute!