BY HEJIRA CONVERY, KINDICARE

JANUARY 16, 2026

Starting childcare provides a great excuse to stock up on cute clothes, shiny shoes and oh-so-stylish accessories for your little one.  

But before you get too excited, it’s good to know what kind of gear your early learner will actually need! 

So, here are some practical tips to hang your fashion choices on.  

1. Dress your child in clothing that’s comfy and not too special  

Childcare days are action-packed, with messy play in the mix.  

So, it’s important that your little one can move freely in their clothes, without worrying about getting paint on that delicate party dress.  

For this reason, old or inexpensive clothes are ideal for childcare.  

Dress your early learner in gear that’s comfortable for the busy day (which means sun-safe clothing that’s not too tight, and not too hot or cold). 

If your child is gaining independence around dressing and toileting, it’s also important to choose clothing that’s easier for them to handle, with elastic waistbands and stretchy fabrics instead of tiny buttons and invisible zips.  

2. Put well-fitting shoes on their feet  

Even if your little learner will be enjoying some barefoot play, it’s important to send them to childcare in shoes that fit well, stay on well, and grip well as they walk and play.  

Paediatric podiatrist, Dr Louise Buchtmann, explains how to choose the right children’s shoe in this KindiCare article, and if you’re assuming your kiddo’s current shoes fit fine, then think again! 

Little feet grow fast, and Louise recommends that you check your child’s foot size every one to three months until they turn three, and every four months until they turn five.  

3. Pack several changes of spare clothes 

A hot spell, cold snap, food spillage or nappy explosion can make your child’s clothes very uncomfortable, very quickly – and sometimes one change of clothes just doesn’t cut it! 

So, pack plenty of spares that your child can slip into if needed, including all layers from tops to socks.  

4. Tie up your child’s long hair 

Whether you do a simple plait, classic pony, or deluxe Dutch braid, you want to keep their hair out of their face.  

Your child will be learning through play all day, so they need to be able to see well without any annoyance. 

And you’ll be grateful for un-knotty hair during the bedtime routine!  

5. Pack your child’s comfort item  

This is the ultimate accessory if your little one is starting childcare for the first time.

A special teddy, blankie, dummy, Mummy memento or other comforter will help them feel safer and less alone when you drop and go, so keep this old friend close!

6. Label all their gear 

Whether your child is enrolled in a small or supersized service, there will be stacks of clothing and other belongings on site, and it’s important to know which stuff belongs to who.  

So, put your tyke’s name on every single item they take to childcare, to avoid lost property.  

And if you feel like ordering something special, there are some gorgeous personalised backpacks, drink bottles and lunch boxes out there!  

Photo credit: Cuddle & Carry Backpack from My Binkie Bear 

7. See what your service asks children to wear and bring 

Some services provide branded hats and tees, while others are mufti; and your child’s backpack will have different things inside, depending on what your service requires.  

So, have a read of your welcome pack to see what should go to childcare with your little one (like food, sun protection, nappies, wipes, bed linen etc), and the team will be happy to explain anything you’re unsure about.  

All in all, it’s very exciting to buy new stuff for your child’s fresh start, but there’s definitely no obligation to spend big or dress flash for childcare.

Just do what feels comfortable.