Whether you are running a home daycare, multi-location business, or thinking of starting your very own daycare, what are some supplies you’ll need in your daycare? When thinking of getting supplies for your daycare, daycare owners initially think about bookshelves full of books, a box of toys and a wide variety of art/craft supplies. There are many daycare necessities out there and it is always a good idea to be make sure you have enough supplies for the days ahead. Most importantly, make sure the supplies you have or are planning to purchase follow the provincial’s legal requirements. For your convenience, check out this Daycare supplies checklist.
1. Safety Supplies
Keeping the people within your childcare centre should be a top priority and safety supplies should be there since day one. Every centre requires a smoke and carbon monoxide detector (hard wired), fire extinguisher, alongside with an emergency evacuation plan. Other essential items include a first-aid kit for events of injuries, containing bandages, disposable gloves, tweezers, alcohol antiseptic wipes, etc. Keep in mind staff persons must keep first and CPR certifications up to date when possible.
2. Cleaning Supplies
Keeping the childcare environment is also equally important when it comes to ensuring children stay healthy. We know kids loving touching things so stuff like dirty toys, eating utensils, equipment and surfaces carry and spread germs. Your centre should stock up on disinfectant sprays and wipes, hand sanitizer, vacuums, mops and brooms are great starts. Clean environments also make your centre appeal more to parents and visitors.
3. Sleeping Supplies
Some centres will have little kids that require naps and so it is essential to have sleeping supplies to accommodate their needs. To make children as comfortable as possible, you’ll want to get sleeping mats or cots. Get ones that have sturdy frames and rounded corners for extra safety. For younger children, consider purchasing cribs. Quilts and blankets are also nice to have, you can ask parents to provide them.
4. Daycare Technology
To run your daycare as efficient as possible, outsourcing your duties with technology will set you up for success. Administrative tasks such as attendance, booking and registration can be tedious and time-consuming, taking away focus from other important things. Kinderdrop is an application helps with your administrative tasks, so you don’t have to.
Managing a daycare is not an easy job and so we understand ensuring your daycare has all the necessary supplies is important. To help check if you’re maintaining the right amount of supplies, first have a budget in mind. Then have a list of supplies you prioritize, for example, starting with safety supplies and working your way down.