Childcare and Preschool Supply List

Download a free childcare supply checklist

Get the full, printable guide to simplify your supply management. This tool helps you prepare your classrooms efficiently, ensuring no critical item is overlooked.

A comprehensive childcare supply list ensures your program is safe, compliant, and ready for learning. Essential items fall into key categories: furniture and sleeping equipment (cribs, cots), health and safety gear (first aid kits, outlet covers), feeding supplies (high chairs, bibs), and learning materials (books, art supplies, age-appropriate toys).

What belongs on a complete childcare supply list?

Whether you are starting a new childcare program or restocking an existing one, tracking inventory across different age groups is critical. A well-organized supply list covers four main areas:

1. Furniture and major equipment

This category usually requires the largest upfront investment. You need durable, easy-to-clean items that meet safety standards.

• Sleeping: Cribs for infants, cots or mats for toddlers and preschoolers.
• Seating: High chairs, booster seats, and child-sized tables and chairs.
• Storage: Cubbies for personal belongings, toy bins, and shelving units.

2. Health and safety supplies

Maintaining a safe environment is the top priority for any childcare provider.

• Safety gear: First aid kits, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and outlet covers.
• Sanitation: Diaper changing stations, disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer, and gloves.
• Hygiene: Tissues, paper towels, soap, and diaper disposal systems.

3. Learning and activity materials

These supplies support development and keep children engaged throughout the day.

• Art: Crayons, non-toxic markers, construction paper, glue sticks, and safety scissors.
• Play: Puzzles, building blocks, dramatic play costumes, and sensory tables.
• Reading: A diverse library of board books and picture books.

4. Feeding and mealtime essentials

If your program provides meals or snacks, you will need a fully stocked kitchen area.

• Utensils: Child-safe forks, spoons, plates, and bowls.
• Prep: Bibs, sippy cups, and bottle warmers for the infant room.

Why you should use a supply checklist

Running a childcare business involves managing hundreds of moving parts. This comprehensive checklist helps childcare providers secure all the necessary supplies to create a nurturing learning environment.

By using a structured list, you can:

• Access a complete inventory: View supplies organized by category for students, teachers, and facilities.
• Address age-specific needs: Ensure you have the right mix of supplies for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
• Track inventory efficiently: Easily monitor what you already have and identify exactly what you still need to buy.
• Maintain compliance: Ensure you meet state licensing requirements for safety and equipment.
• Focus on the children: Spend less time worrying about missing items and more time engaging with the children in your care.

Additional resources for childcare providers

Once you have your supplies organized, explore these resources to help run your business better:

• The Ultimate Cleaning Guide
• Annual Budget Planner
• Tax Preparation Checklist
• Kindergarten Readiness Checklist
• Grant Writing Guide for Childcare Programs

Frequently asked questions

Q: What are the most expensive supplies for a new childcare center?
A: Furniture and major equipment, such as commercial-grade cribs, cots, and outdoor playground structures, are typically the biggest expenses. However, these are long-term investments that do not need frequent replacement.

Q: Do I need different supplies for infants versus preschoolers?
A: Yes. Infants require specific equipment like cribs, changing tables, and bottle warmers, while preschoolers need active play materials, cots for napping, and educational supplies like scissors and glue.

Q: How often should I restock classroom supplies?
A: Consumable items like art supplies (paper, glue, paint) and hygiene products (diapers, wipes, sanitizer) should be checked weekly and restocked monthly to ensure you never run out.