Essential accessories for the first day of school

The first day of school , especially in the nursery school , is a mixture of excitement and logistics. As a mother, I can tell you that nothing really prepares you for this moment... except good organization and the right accessories. For this first time at school , we want to reassure our child, avoid forgetting things, and simplify the often chaotic mornings. Here is my 100% tested and approved list of what you absolutely need for this return to kindergarten .

Don't forget to take a picture on the first day of school! This first day of school is so symbolic that we found this class photo board to display them without forgetting them.

Backpack and photo - Menoum Menoum

Really useful accessories for the nursery

No need for gadgets. Just the essentials. Here's what I used from the first day of kindergarten , and it saved me from many tantrums (and forgetfulness):

• Iron-on or self-adhesive name labels : Nothing is more stressful for a child (and the teacher) than a sweater or cup without a name. Everything is easily identified. Stick them on clothes, shoes, blankets, lunch boxes, and more.
• Personalized water bottle : lightweight, unbreakable, and easy for little hands to open. And best of all, it's branded with their name to avoid any back-and-forth conversations in class. A real landmark for your child.
• A comforter embroidered with his name : When he leaves for school with his comforter, it's his connection to home. If he's marked, he always comes back. And that reassures everyone, especially during the adjustment period.
• Changing bag : Put a complete change of clothes (underwear, pants, top) in a separate small bag. And remember to check it every Friday evening.
• First suitable school bag : small, lightweight, with adjustable straps. No need for wheels or unnecessary pockets. Just enough to hold a comfort blanket, diapers, and necessary nursery supplies .

Why are these accessories really a game changer?

Because this first day of school is already a shock. There's no need to add unnecessary stress. With these five elements, your child gains independence, security, and direction. And you gain peace of mind. You know they're well equipped, well-identified, and ready to enjoy their day in preschool .

Want to know more about how to navigate this milestone with a smile? Read our full article on starting kindergarten .

Mistakes to avoid for the first day of school

When I was preparing for my daughter's first day of school , I wanted to buy everything. Everything. The matching pencil case, the new "special school" shoes, the school bag with a built-in LED... The result? Too much useless stuff, and a bag that was way too heavy for a small section .

So to avoid the same mistakes, here's what you should avoid:

• A school bag that's too big : there's no point planning ahead for first grade. In kindergarten, a small backpack will suffice. If it's too large, it'll slip off your shoulders and onto the already overstuffed coat rack in the hallway.
• Too many nursery supplies : The school often provides a lot of materials.
• Clothes that are too "precious" : paint, dirt, and puddles are unforgiving. Choose comfortable and practical clothes that you can put on yourself.
• An unmarked cuddly toy : a classic mistake! And when there are four identical rabbits in the classroom, it's a disaster. Embroidered or labeled, always.
• Lace-up shoes : At 3 years old, you're not learning how to tie knots. Velcro straps are your best friend (and your teacher's too).

For children's snacks, we have plenty of healthy and delicious recipe ideas!

Choosing the right accessories: a smart little guide

Want to save time? Here's what I recommend, after testing everything myself:

• First school bag : Choose it based on your child's height. Ideally, it should be 28 to 32 cm wide at most. Choose a sturdy but flexible model with an easy opening (Velcro or zipper). And avoid wheels: not suitable for the younger section.
• Embroidered cuddly toy : You can have the name embroidered in a workshop or on Etsy, or opt for sewn-on labels. The important thing is that it's recognizable.
• Clothing and object labels : iron-on for clothing, self-adhesive for water bottles, boxes, and shoes. There are special "back-to-school" packs with everything you need inside.
• Personalized water bottle : stainless steel or BPA-free plastic, 350 ml size is sufficient. It must open easily (push button, integrated straw) and be unbreakable.
• Diaper bag : A small cotton bag is enough. Put a t-shirt, leggings, panties, and socks in it. Add a plastic bag for wet clothes just in case. (And that's the teacher you'll be carrying around for the whole year, trust me!)

My selection of essentials for a first return to school:

• Backpack: small velvet bag , Philippines bag at Hello Hossy, Romeo model at Petit Picotin
• Personalized water bottle : we love the insulated water bottles for children from Maison June .
• School label pack at A-qui-S
• Snack box at c mon label for example
• Customizable comforter from Atelier Romy
• April Eleven canvas diaper bags are perfect!

The little extra for going back to school in kindergarten: Look on the April Eleven website, you will find class photo panels there! A great idea for collecting back-to-school photos at the start of each school year. Durable and pretty, often customizable and handmade, these wooden panels are perfect.

And what about parents? Also preparing for this first day back at school

We always think about what the child will experience... but this first time at school also shakes the parents' hearts. We spend full time together "I entrust you to others, every day." We have to prepare for this shift.

Here's what I learned:

• Prepare yourself emotionally : It's okay to cry.
• Plan ahead : Mornings should be smooth. Prepare your things the night before, put your child to bed early, and keep a gentle pace at first.
• Trust the educational team : they're used to supporting children (and parents). Ask your questions, even the silly ones.
• Give yourself a break after going back to school : a coffee on a terrace, a walk... To land and release the pressure.
• Note the small victories : “He smiled this morning,” “She talked about her day.” These details are huge in this adventure.

Starting kindergarten isn't just a date on the calendar. It's a defining moment. For your child, but for you too. And with the right accessories , the right habits, and a little gentleness, this first year at school can become a truly wonderful memory.

Special FAQ for small section equipment

How many changes of clothes should I bring for school?

One complete outfit is enough in the bag for everyday use. If your child ever has a second accident the same day, the assistants will always find clean clothes for your child.

My child is not 100% potty trained, what should I include in their bag?

Don't panic, many children are still learning to read at the beginning of the first year of nursery school. Put in the bag: underwear or diaper, pants, top, socks, and a small plastic bag for wet clothes. You can discreetly notify the ATSEM in the morning.

What is the ideal size for a kindergarten water bottle?

Between 300 and 400 ml is perfect. The bottle should be lightweight, unbreakable, and easy to open on your own. Bottles with a built-in straw or a push-button opening are ideal for small hands.

Can we replace the comforter with a personalized item?

Yes, if your child doesn't have a "classic" comforter, a small scarf with your scent or an embroidered handkerchief can serve as a transitional object. The important thing is that it reassures them and is authorized by the school.

Where can I find practical and pretty labels for back to school?

There are specialized websites that offer complete preschool packages: clothing, shoes, items, bags, etc. Some are personalized with designs, which are very useful for children who can't yet read. Also look at French designers for a more ethical alternative.