Preschool Backpacks

Preschool time is just about upon us.  Go ahead and cry because your baby is growing up so fast.  Or, do the happy dance because you now have a few free mornings again. I will wait for you to finish. All done now?

The question now becomes do you have your preschoolers backpack all sorted out? No? Not, to worry. Here is a little cheat sheet on what preschool backpacks are all about, what to put in them, and what not to put in them.  Happy school days everyone.

PICKING A PRESCHOOL BACKPACK

Preschool backpacks are a bit smaller than regular backpacks. Some come with wheels, some without, some look like regular backpacks, and others are shall we say more interesting.    When picking out a preschool backpack you should consider your child's personality, what they are going to need to put in their backpack, and how are they actually going to end up lugging it around.

Backpacks with wheels are a bit heavier because of the plastic wheels. They are great for the preschooler who loves to drag their stuff on the ground. If your preschooler insists on wearing the backpack you might want to skip the wheels. If you frankly don't know you might opt for a backpack like the one above that allows you to do both. The monkey backpack from the NeatoShop has removable wheels for added flexibility.

WHAT TO PUT IN A PRESCHOOL BACKPACK

1. A change of clothes. When putting in a change of clothes you should keep in mind the changing weather. Lighter clothes for the end of summer and spring and warmer clothes for fall and winter.

2. A change of underwear. Accidents happen.

3. Something comforting. Separation can be hard for kids. Sometimes a little something comforting can help make the separation easier. This could be as simple as a family picture.

4. A sweater or jacket. Some little people are fussy when it comes to classroom temperature.  You might find the air conditioning to be set perfectly and they might be freezing.

5. A label. It's best to label all your little one's belongings including their backpack. This helps to ensure that you come home with your stuff and not some other kid's stuff.

WHAT NOT TO PUT IN A PRESCHOOL BACKPACK

1. Toys. Preschool is a time to learn the art of sharing, but just not with your toys. Toys from home can easily start a classroom war.  Avoid putting toys in a preschoolers backpack unless specifically instructed to do so by the preschool teacher.

2. Writing utensils (pens, crayons, markers). Most preschools like to control the distribution of writing utensils. This tends to keep little graffiti monsters in check.

3. Food. Allergies are a big concern at schools these days. It is best to only include a snack or drink in the backpack if your school requested it to be included. Don't worry most schools provide their own snacks.

4. Dangerous items. I think this is pretty self explanatory. Keep items that requires adult supervision out of the backpack.  Just because your kids is responsible and a genius doesn't mean that his classmates are as well.

CAUTION: CHECK YOUR PACKED BACKPACKS BEFORE SCHOOL EVERYDAY

Kids are notorious for hiding things.  You will want to recheck your kid's backpack before they leave for school.  If you don't you just may get an angry that your child's  roly poly collection has invaded the classroom.