Preschool is an imaginative and fun experience, in part because of all the fun projects teachers complete with students. Those activties' supplies can become costly. Ask the preschool for a list of commonly needed items and pick up stickers, paper, glue, crayons, markers or paint the next time you go shopping. Craft projects often require gently used items, such as paper towel rolls or empty shoe boxes. Collect those and bring them in.
Some organizations, such as Scholastic, have an arrangement with preschools to donate books or other school supplies with your purchase. Other businesses give money to your school of choice when you shop for school supplies at their store.
Finally, pick up gift cards when out shopping at local grocery stores or super-centers. This allows the preschool to purchase specifically what it needs at a later time.
Ask about packaging and content regulations, and then go grocery shopping for your preferred preschool. Preschools commonly serve whole wheat crackers, 100% juice and milk as snacks. During field trips, students often eat onsite, so ask if you can bring part of their lunch.
Other than food, donate napkins and plates for serving. Preschools also need bleach wipes and baby wipes for cleanups. Pick up hand soap and paper towels for messy little hands. Preschools also typically need a small selection of kitchen supplies.
Volunteer your time at your child's preschool. Stuff envelopes, sweep up after a carnival, or clean mud or rainwater on the playground equipment. Be sure you respect the teacher's needs and requests. Scholastic warns that although teachers welcome and encourage parents' participation, it must be done in an effective manner that works within the classroom structure, under the teacher's guidance, and in the best interest of all the children.
Participate in fundraisers the preschool holds. If your preschool doesn't hold any, ask the coordinator if she'd like you to initiate one.
If you have a unique occupation such as a doctor or carpenter, ask the school if it has a career week and volunteer to speak to students. If possible, volunteer your business location as a mini-field trip. Bring in tools or items specific to your job. Donating time in any form is a wonderful way to contribute to a preschool.