Last week, James started preschool. The bad news is I miss him as my constant companion, but the good news is: he absolutely loves it. On the drive there in the mornings he tells me, “I’m so excited!!” When I pick him up in the afternoons, he tells me the things he did (“I washed my hands!!”). Daniel and I are so happy and relieved that he is adjusting well to a new situation, especially after last year and not seeing many people.

Naturally, I wanted to make the transition as easy as possible for him. I tried my hardest to get all the things he would need (what the heck is a rain suit?) while making sure he’d like them, too. That meant almost everything was dinosaur themed, but at least he was happy to take his lunchbox to school! Here is some of the great options I found!

My Favorite Finds for Preschool

Nike Flex Runner in game/royal with university red
-AND-
Nike Flex Plus in smoke grey
James has worn these sneakers for a year now and I can’t say enough good things about them. They’re cushy, breathable, super flexible, and lightweight. The loops on the back and tongue make it so easy for him to pull on, too.

Slip-on Crocs
At his preschool, the kids wear outdoor shoes and indoor shoes (that they leave at school). They recommended Crocs clogs for indoor shoes. James has been wearing them around the house for a few weeks to get used to them and so far they’re great. Lightweight, easy to clean, easy to slip-on, and the heel band helps them stay on.

Crocs rain boots
These are the rainboots he’s worn for the past 2 years (in different sizes). Completely waterproof, not too heavy, washable, and the handles on the sides are the best part. They make it so easy for James to pull on and off.

Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie Dino backpack (small size)
James loves dinosaurs and this backpack is covered in them. It’s cute, water-resistant, and durable, with padded shoulder straps. I think the small size will serve us well for a couple years. Oh, and we got it monogrammed with his name.

Cat & Jack Yellow Raincoat
For some reason, I just really wanted a yellow rain jacket for him. This one is adorable. It’s more of a lightweight jacket, so keep that in mind if you’re looking for a fall jacket with a little more warmth in the lining.

CamelBak water bottle
Leakproof, spill-proof, BPA-free, and dishwasher safe

Wildkin Dinosaur Lunch Bag
I pack this with a snack, cloth napkin, and James’s water bottle fits right inside (he comes home before lunch), but it will fit a bento box or other lunch container and an ice pack!

Crayola Kids Reusable Face Masks
James’s school asks that kids only wear solid color masks (prints can be distracting to little ones). This 5-pack of colorful cloth masks has been a great option so far. The masks are lightweight, machine-washable, the ear straps are adjustable, and there’s a bendable nose clip within the fabric to help the mask stay secure. Bonus: there’s a little tag to write his name on each mask.