Backpack Solution for Toddlers--Too Big, Too Heavy!

I don't have this issue since they don't nap at my daughter's preschool, so she only has her backpack and lunchbox, but I can see your point! They do make nap mat covers that sell online that may have a handle. I would just google nap mat covers and see what comes up. I was looking into them too, but since I have to walk my son into MDO (they don't do carpool before pre-school age), I just carry it all myself and didn't want to spend the money on a fancy cover. I hope it helps and you're able to find something that works for her. It sure is a big load of stuff!

Does she really need a binder versus just a simple folder? That seems excessive for a 3 year old! They sure start early, don't they??

At our preschool I have seen several parents that carpool, I don't find it's worth the hassle of moving carseats around, anyhow...The parents I have seen have a rolling cart similar to the one in this link:
http://www.perigot.fr/images/grand-4/ROLLING-CART-ISOTHER...
THey then just put all the belongings into the one cart, and have the kiddos hold hands (like a train) when crossing the street. Usually, if you check w/ the school they may have a place to store the cart, similar to when you have to leave the carseat b/c someone else is picking up.
As far as puttin a handle on the nap mat cover, it really is quite simple, and I would be happy to sew one on for you. If not you could always try puting some wide ribbon and tying it around the nap mat. Email me if you would like some help sewing it on. ____@____.com

Wow they do not make it easy for parents or the child. You or the driver are just going to have to help her, if you can't take a rolling bag.

Make sure everything is clearly marked with her name and phone number. Have your daughter help you remember everything she is supposed to take and everything she is supposed to bring home. It will teach her responsibility and take some of the pressure off of you.

My 3 year old daughter had the same problem! I ended up finding a backpack at old navy that was a bit smaller than her other one, the matching lunchbox clips onto the outside. The inside of the bp is just big enough for her mat and pillow. It has a front pouch for folders/spare clothes. My Daughter likes to carry the lunchbox on her shoulder with her bp on her back until she gets to her cubby and reattaches them all again. I think it distributes the weight a little better! I saw similar ones at GAP kids too! Good Luck!

Hi L.,
What about using on of the yoga mat straps that slips around the mat and makes a carrying handle? I am not sure if it would work for a thicker nap mat, but there may be something like that in the sleeping bag section of a store.
Hope that helps,
S.