Preschool Supply List
For families enrolled in the preschool and kindergarten, we've compiled a list of items your child will need throughout the school year to ensure comfort, warmth and freedom of movement and imagination:
Note that for families receiving Childcare Assistance through Iowa DHS, Prairie Flower will supply you with any items you may need, to ensure our programming remains accessible to all. Please discuss your needs with the Director.
1). A water bottle with a hands-free carrier. This can be a bottle carrier you purchase, or simply a strap with a carabiner long enough to sling over a shoulder and across the chest.
There are canteens made with built in straps that can work as well. Really, this can be a backpack, pouch or a side bag; it just needs to be something that won’t restrict your child’s movement as we tromp to the woods.
2). A pair of slippers or “house” shoes, to be left at school in your child's cubby. These should be as flexible-soled as possible for ease of movement.
Note that for families receiving Childcare Assistance through Iowa DHS, Prairie Flower will supply you with any items you may need, to ensure our programming remains accessible to all. Please discuss your needs with the Director.
1). A water bottle with a hands-free carrier. This can be a bottle carrier you purchase, or simply a strap with a carabiner long enough to sling over a shoulder and across the chest.
There are canteens made with built in straps that can work as well. Really, this can be a backpack, pouch or a side bag; it just needs to be something that won’t restrict your child’s movement as we tromp to the woods.
2). A pair of slippers or “house” shoes, to be left at school in your child's cubby. These should be as flexible-soled as possible for ease of movement.
3). Long pants or leggings for the woods: Even on the warmest days, we ask that children wear long pants for protection in the woods (no shorts please, and always wear leggings under skirts and dresses).
4). An extra change of seasonally appropriate clothing stored in an enclosed box (like shoe box or small plastic tub with a lid): Replenish as needed and change seasonally. It doesn’t hurt to have several socks as backup, as well as several pairs of gloves or mittens. Also, please store in this box several plastic bags or wet bags; 2-gallon Ziploc bags work well for transporting wet clothing.
5). Small pillow and small fleece blanket: NOTE: This is only needed for children enrolled in Day Song.
6). A preschool-sized backpack
7). A 2-compartment, dishwasher-safe snack box
8). A thermos for the winter months
9). Proper outerwear for each season: You'll need to pay attention to the forecast and ensure your child has the appropriate gear for rain, wind, snow and other outdoor conditions.
4). An extra change of seasonally appropriate clothing stored in an enclosed box (like shoe box or small plastic tub with a lid): Replenish as needed and change seasonally. It doesn’t hurt to have several socks as backup, as well as several pairs of gloves or mittens. Also, please store in this box several plastic bags or wet bags; 2-gallon Ziploc bags work well for transporting wet clothing.
5). Small pillow and small fleece blanket: NOTE: This is only needed for children enrolled in Day Song.
6). A preschool-sized backpack
7). A 2-compartment, dishwasher-safe snack box
8). A thermos for the winter months
9). Proper outerwear for each season: You'll need to pay attention to the forecast and ensure your child has the appropriate gear for rain, wind, snow and other outdoor conditions.
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FALL & SPRING
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WINTER:
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*Note about boots: It is often necessary to wear waterproof snow boots before and following snow season. (Bogs brand books are a favorite, as they are snow- and waterproof, as well as warm). Most rain boots do not keep the children’s feet warm enough in late fall and early spring.
**Note on warmth: You will find us very focused on warmth issues. Natural fibers such as cotton, silk, linen and wool are ideal as they absorb moisture and hold body temperature well. You may consider acquiring wool or silk undergarments to layer the torso.
Until serious winter, you may explore several light layers instead of one heavy coat so the children can move more freely. Layers can always be adjusted according to the individual’s warmth needs and the change in weather. Children’s senses are not yet developed enough to judge these matters for themselves.
**Note on warmth: You will find us very focused on warmth issues. Natural fibers such as cotton, silk, linen and wool are ideal as they absorb moisture and hold body temperature well. You may consider acquiring wool or silk undergarments to layer the torso.
Until serious winter, you may explore several light layers instead of one heavy coat so the children can move more freely. Layers can always be adjusted according to the individual’s warmth needs and the change in weather. Children’s senses are not yet developed enough to judge these matters for themselves.