Running a daycare in North Salt Lake is not an easy task, but something that most definitely helps is having the right supplies to make the day run smoothly. Whether running a small in-home daycare or a larger childcare facility, this article will cover five daily essentials you need.
Overview of Childcare Essentials:
- Cleaning Supplies
- Health & Safety Kits
- Furniture & Equipment
- Daycare Technology
- Play Materials
- Cleaning Supplies
Since COVID-19, cleanliness and hygiene have become more important than ever. With the number of small children and toddlers passing through daycare centers in North Salt Lake, it is necessary to ensure your facility is clean.
Not only is the children’s health a reason to be concerned, but the adults who work in childcare as well. It is important to have a plan in place for regularly cleaning toys and furniture to prevent the spread of germs. For some items, daily cleaning will be required.
Your daycare cleaning supplies list might include:
- Hand sanitizer
- Multi-purpose cleaning sprays
- Liquid hand soap
- Disinfecting wipes
- Paper towels
- Vacuum
- Health & Safety Kits
Along with cleaning supplies, health and safety are also extremely important in North Salt Lake childcare places. Keeping your children safe should be your top priority, so make sure their eyes are protected, it’s important to have safety and health tools in your daycare essentials.
Here’s a list of recommended items:
- First-aid kits
- Thermometers
- Smoke detectors
- Carbon monoxide detectors
- Fire extinguishers
- Child safety locks
Along with these recommendations, it’s also a good idea to put together an emergency kit. These kits often include additional first-aid supplies, an updated file with emergency numbers, diapers and cleaning wipes, tissues, hand warmers, flashlights, water, and nonperishable snacks. Because life is unpredictable, definitely keep this kit somewhere safe and easily accessible.
Furthermore, little ones will require a step stool to reach counters, sinks, and other areas during the day. Step stools that are not slippery and have a wide base will reduce the risk of slipping. Also, some stools have higher support frames that can be used as handles to prevent falls.
- Furniture & Equipment
In North Salt Lake, you will need appropriate-sized furniture for your childcare center. One thing you’ll need to think about is seating for the kids. For older children, you will need tables and chairs or desks—especially if they will be learning or doing activities. As for little ones, high chairs will be necessary.
A few other things you will need are beds/mattresses for nap time. Babies and toddlers will most likely need cribs. For bigger children, cots are recommended because they can be easily cleaned. Not only that, they also make for easy storage.
Furthermore, even the smallest items, such as storage units, can significantly impact your daycare’s productivity. You can store your daycare needs or children’s items with well-placed and organized storage units. This will increase efficiency and functionality in your North Salt Lake center. For example, you can have a designated place for every child’s diapers, change of clothes, toys, and other necessities.
Of course, you should take safety precautions if shelving or storage units are within reach of curious children. Depending on the location of the furniture and its contents, it may be necessary to anchor it to walls or install locks on cabinet doors.
- Daycare Technology
Technology has become integral to today’s childcare service in North Salt Lake. Everyone has become dependent on the ease of tech. Although some people may look down on tech, it is a really useful tool.
Smart devices offer various educational options, including videos, music, and virtual field trips. In addition, these devices can be used by educators to organize drop-offs and pick-ups, track their rooms, and send parents important updates.
Some common tech devices to have in your daycare:
- Smartphones or tablets
- Digital cameras
- Computer
- Printer
- Bluetooth speakers
- Play Materials
Play and exploration are the best way for children to learn. These materials should allow children to explore the world around them. It’s important to have appropriate play materials for your child’s age to ensure they can safely be used to support cognitive, language, and physical development.
Some childcare play materials to consider:
- Felt boards
- Sensory bins
- Craft materials
- Props for dramatic play
- Headsets for audio listening
- Playsets (like a miniature kitchen, dollhouse, etc.)
- Dolls
- Puzzles
- Musical instruments
- Writing tools
- Building blocks
Furthermore, many childcare centers in North Salt Lake offer a reading corner/library, an art and building center, science centers, dramatic play centers, writing centers, and a science lab. Of course, these centers will require age-appropriate materials such as manipulatives and crafts, art supplies for projects, science instruments, and materials for pretend play.
Also, outdoor play equipment is great if you have space. This includes a water table, sandbox, playground, garden, or anything else you can think of. Children need to play outside because it allows them to develop their gross motor skills.
