The kindergarten packing list is almost always longer than it seems at first, and part of it only becomes clear once you’re there — every kindergarten has its own small rules. Below is a base that fits most kindergartens and nurseries in Haifa, and what’s worth checking separately.
Step 01
The basic everyday set
These are items that usually stay at the kindergarten or get refreshed regularly — easy to pack once and just top up after that.
- A change of clothes — at least one full set in case your child gets dirty or wet;
- Spare underwear and socks — two sets is better, especially during potty training;
- Pajamas or a light blanket for nap time, if the kindergarten doesn’t provide one;
- A small backpack your child can comfortably carry themselves;
- A water bottle labeled with your child’s name.
In short
The simplest approach is to leave a standing «emergency stock» at the kindergarten — a change of clothes and underwear that stays there permanently instead of traveling back and forth every day.
Step 02
Clothes and shoes
The main principle is comfort and ease your child can manage on their own — staff physically can’t button small buttons and tie shoelaces for ten children at once.
- Clothes without complicated fastenings — velcro, wide necklines, no tight belts;
- Indoor shoes — lightweight, with velcro or no laces;
- Outdoor shoes suited to the weather — for walks and playing outside;
- A hat — a wide-brim hat in summer, a warm hat in winter;
- A raincoat or rain suit, if the kindergarten goes outside in any weather.
It’s sensible to choose clothes you won’t mind ruining — paint, sand, and food will almost certainly end up on them.
Step 03
Hygiene and small items
- Diapers and wet wipes — for nurseries and during potty training;
- A comb, if your child has long hair;
- Sunscreen in the warm season — many kindergartens ask you to bring your own;
- A personal handkerchief or tissues;
- A small info card — a list of allergies and parent contact details, if the kindergarten doesn’t collect this separately at enrollment.
The list of hygiene basics differs from one kindergarten to another — it’s simpler to just ask the staff once than to buy things on the fly later.
— practical packing advice
Step 04
Specifically for the first day
On the first day, beyond the usual set, it helps to bring a few things you won’t need every day afterward.
- A favorite toy or object from home — something to remind your child of a familiar setting;
- A small family photo — for some children, having one in their backpack pocket is comforting;
- A filled-out questionnaire about your child’s habits, if the kindergarten requests one — sleep routine, favorite games, how to soothe them;
- An extra change of clothes — surprises are more likely in the first few days.
Step 05
How to label everything
With a whole group of kids around, identical hats and water bottles get mixed up almost inevitably — labeled items save staff time and parents’ nerves.
- Clothes — sewn-in or stick-on name labels on the inside;
- Shoes — marker on the inside of the tongue;
- Water bottle, backpack, pencil case — a name sticker somewhere visible;
- Small items (pacifier, toy) — worth labeling too, if your child is nursery age.
Step 06
What not to bring
A few things are better left at home — they’re likely to get lost or create difficulties within the group.
- Expensive or fragile toys — easy to lose or break during shared play;
- Very small parts — a hazard for younger children;
- Candy and food from home — unless coordinated with the kindergarten in advance, especially given possible allergies within the group;
- Large sums of money, jewelry, electronic devices.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to buy everything in advance, before the first day?
The basic set — a change of clothes, shoes, and a water bottle — is best prepared in advance. Everything that becomes clear on the spot (diaper type, hygiene specifics) can be added during the first week.
Does the kindergarten provide any of this itself?
It depends on the institution — some keep a general stock of diapers or wipes, others ask you to bring everything yourself. It’s worth checking this at enrollment or during the introductory visit.
How often should I refresh the spare clothes in the cubby?
It’s reasonable to check every 1-2 weeks and by season — children grow fast, and clothes get dirty more often than you’d think.
What if my child refuses to part with the toy from home?
In the first weeks of adaptation this is usually normal, not a problem — most kindergartens are relaxed about it. If it continues longer, it’s worth discussing the right pace with the staff.
This material is for general informational purposes and is based on common practice at kindergartens and nurseries. The exact list of items and the rules of a specific institution may vary — check them directly with the kindergarten you’re interested in.
Looking for a kindergarten for your little one in Haifa?
Navon is a bilingual kindergarten (Hebrew and Russian) for children from 3 months to 5 years old. We’ll tell you what’s needed with us.
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