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:
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 down 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 (and please, no media characters).
3). Play-appropriate clothing: It is our policy that children’s clothing be free of media images, which can hinder the children’s imaginative play. Play clothing that is non-restrictive and ready for a child’s active work is needed.
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 down 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 (and please, no media characters).
3). Play-appropriate clothing: It is our policy that children’s clothing be free of media images, which can hinder the children’s imaginative play. Play clothing that is non-restrictive and ready for a child’s active work is needed.
We want children to be engaged with movement and sensory impressions without having to worry about their clothing. Jewelry and watches add nothing to the quality of play and are often distracting (and very often get lost).
4). 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).
5). An extra change of seasonally appropriate clothing stored in an enclosed box (like shoe box or small plastic tub with a lid), and decorated with your child’s symbol: 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.
6). Small pillow and small fleece blanket: NOTE: This is only needed for children enrolled in the River Song extended care afternoon program.
7). 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. (Please, no media characters!).
4). 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).
5). An extra change of seasonally appropriate clothing stored in an enclosed box (like shoe box or small plastic tub with a lid), and decorated with your child’s symbol: 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.
6). Small pillow and small fleece blanket: NOTE: This is only needed for children enrolled in the River Song extended care afternoon program.
7). 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. (Please, no media characters!).
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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. (Miss Blue has found that Bogs work the best for her, 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.
