Top 10 Must-Haves for Childcare

If you are just starting your childcare business you are probably wondering just what are the must-haves for childcare.  Not just the paperwork, but the stuff.  Well, this post is especially for you!  Today I am giving you my Top 10 Must-Have items I have and use in my childcare.  Many I couldn’t do without.  Look out for my favs and I even stick in a BONUS item at the end.  So ready?  here we go …

Top 10 Must-Haves for Child Care – The Stuff!

1. Diaper Pail –

Creative Baby Tidy Diaper Pail – I really like this diaper pail not only for the ease of use but also because you can really use any generic trash bag as a liner.  Tip:  You really don’t have to buy ones specifically for diaper pails.

2. Diaper Storage & Portable Changing Pad –

Ubbi Diaper Storage Caddy and Changing Mat – I love this portable changing kit!  It is perfectly suited for childcare because it allows you to stock quite a few diapers in the unit and still has room for a full-size wipe container.  There is also a handy drawer to hold other essentials like creams, gloves, etc.  It comes with a color-coordinated diaper pad too.

3. Portable Playard –

Summer Infant Pop N’ Play Portable Playard from Summer Infant –  This one is one of my all-time favorites!  Now we don’t have to sacrifice one of the indoor play yards when we want to take the kiddos outdoors for some fresh air.  This one is perfectly suited for the elements and doesn’t fade, even in bright sunlight.  The generous size of this play yard gives more than enough room for one or two children.  Assembles super-easily and collapses to a very storage-friendly size.

4. Fire Extinguisher –

Multi-Purpose Fire Extinguisher – Most childcare regulations require that you have a fire extinguisher in the facility.  So this is definitely one of the must-haves for childcare.  I was sure to get one that came with a mounting bracket so I could mount it within easy reach.  Be sure to check with your licensing agency for the specific model code you should have.

5. Tot Locks –

Magnetic Cabinet Locks – Gotta have those locks for prying hands!  I love the clean look these magnetic cabinet locks give.  There is no visible hardware, just a magnet installed inside the cabinet.  They are easy to install and aren’t as unsightly as many of the safety locks on the market.  Choose the starter pack or multi-unit sets to fit your needs.

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6. Portable Swing –

Graco Baby Swing by Me, Cleo from Graco – My home is space-challenged so when it comes to equipment, I love portable and collapsible things.  The more the better!  This swing has the bells and whistles like the larger swings, just in a more compact size.  The removable seat is super soft and washable.

7. Bumbo –

Bumbo Floor Seat,  from Bumbo – I don’t know what I would do without my Bumbo seat!  A definite fav.  It is perfect for the little ones who are just learning to sit up but still need some back support.  Perfect for circle time.  The seat can even stand-in for a high chair at feeding time.  Tip:  I would suggest purchasing the optional tray.

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• Top 15 Must-Haves for Kid’s Art

8. Baby Gate –

Pressure Mount Safety Gate – A baby gate is another necessity for keeping those little ones out of certain areas.  Luckily there are many sizes to choose from whether you need it for a standard sized doorway or a large expanse in an open area.  I like the pressure mount versions of the gates.  They allow you to use it where you need it and then remove the gate later without attaching the gate permanently to the walls.

9. Smoke Detector Combo –

Kidde KN-COSM-BA Battery-Operated Combination Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Alarm with Voice Warning – Most fire codes require more than the standard smoke detectors nowadays.  This unit is a combination of smoke and carbon monoxide alarm but also has a voice alert warning.  This is another of the must-haves for childcare businesses.

10. First aid kit –

First Aid Kit Hard Red Case 326 Pieces Exceeds OSHA and ANSI Guidelines – The size of this First Aid kit allows you to be prepared for just about any minor injury the kids find themselves in.  You won’t run out very soon with this well-stocked 326 piece kit.  This is definitely one of the must-haves for childcare.

BONUS – One More Must-Have

Digital Thermometer  –  Another favorite of mine is a digital thermometer.  Just like the ones found in most doctor’s offices, digital thermometers give fast, accurate temps of even the most wiggly toddler.  Look for one that is easy to read, has a good rating and stores the information.

Related Reading:

• Budget Buying for Child Care
• Hacks for Child Care
• What no one tells you about being a childcare provider

So there you have my Top 10 Must-Haves for Child Care.  Got one you would like to add?  It would absolutely make my day if you would leave me a comment below.