If you’ve ever reached into your first aid kit only to find… a half-used roll of tape, a few sad Band-Aids, and mystery ointment from who-knows-when — you’re not alone!
Child care providers are superheroes when it comes to caring for little ones, but even heroes need to check their gear from time to time. It’s makeover time — for your First Aid Kit!
Think of your first aid kit as your #classroom’s safety toolbox. Whether you’re treating a scraped knee on the #playground or handling a nosebleed after snack time, having the right supplies (and knowing how to use them!) can make all the difference.
The truth is, many first aid kits are outdated or incomplete — missing essentials like gloves, updated burn cream, or an #emergency contact list. A few minutes of TLC can turn that dusty box into a lifesaving resource that’s ready for anything.
So grab your checklist, crank up some energizing music, and let’s give your kit the glow-up it deserves!
Here’s a fun and practical checklist inspired by the Emergency Supply List from AIDCPR.com — perfect for child care settings:
Adhesive bandages (assorted sizes for those superhero scrapes)
Sterile gauze pads and adhesive tape
Antiseptic wipes or solution
Tweezers and scissors (for splinters and tape trimming)
Disposable gloves (non-latex is best)
Digital thermometer
Ice packs (instant or reusable)
CPR face shield or mask
Triangular bandage or sling
Elastic bandage wraps
Burn cream or gel
Emergency blanket
Eye wash or saline
Small flashlight with extra batteries
Emergency contact list
Child-specific medical consent forms
Allergy and medication info sheet
First aid manual or quick-reference guide
Hand sanitizer (because sticky hands happen!)
A beautiful kit is only helpful if it’s up-to-date. Here are three quick habits to keep your supplies ready for action:
Set a Reminder: Check your kit every 3 months (mark it on your classroom calendar).
Inspect Expiration Dates: Ointments, wipes, and medications have a shelf life — replace anything expired or opened.
Refill Regularly: Create a refill bag or “wish list” for items running low. A quick monthly scan keeps things #stress- #free.
Turn it into a team activity! Make “First Aid Friday” part of your routine — it’s a great way to stay prepared and get everyone involved.
Every child care center is unique. You might need extra cold packs if you’re #outdoors a lot, or hypoallergenic supplies if you have children with sensitivities.
Pro tip: Create a “Go Kit” — a smaller, portable first aid bag for field trips or #outdoor-play. Label it cl #early and keep it stocked from your main kit before each outing.
And remember — your best tool is knowledge. Knowing how to use your supplies correctly turns your kit from a box of stuff into a powerful #safety system.
Even the most complete first aid kit is only as useful as the hands that use it.
That’s why ChildCareEd offers engaging, easy-to-follow CPR and First Aid Training designed specifically for child care providers.
You’ll learn how to:
Respond to common child care emergencies
Use CPR and first aid techniques #safely and effectively
Build confidence in real-life scenarios
We even make it easy for your whole center to get certified together — check out our guide on Team Up to Save Lives: How to Schedule Group CPR & First Aid Training Through ChildCareEd to learn how to organize a fun, collaborative training session for your #staff.
Here’s your challenge:
Before the week is over, gather your team and give your first aid kit a full makeover. Use the Emergency Supply List as your guide, replace expired items, and label everything clearly.
Then, celebrate your refreshed, ready-to-go safety station with a little cheer — because when you’re prepared, you’re protecting the most important people in the world: the children in your care.
Ready to refresh your skills as well as your supplies?
👉 Sign up today for ChildCareEd’s CPR and First Aid Training and become the confident, capable safety hero your classroom deserves.
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