--- title: "Childcare centers" id: "5421" type: "page" slug: "childcare-centers" published_at: "2023-10-04T01:08:30+00:00" modified_at: "2026-04-14T06:07:28+00:00" url: "https://mybrightwheel.com/childcare-centers/" markdown_url: "https://mybrightwheel.com/childcare-centers.md" excerpt: "Common childcare center tasks that slow you down Running a childcare center involves dozens of daily tasks: Inefficiencies can add up quickly, whether you’re working manually or juggling multiple tools. If these challenges sound familiar, explore the common pain points..." --- # The #1 childcare management software ## The easiest all-in-one solution for childcare management ## The easiest all-in-one solution for childcare management Simplify your billing processes, increase enrollment, and build deeper connections with families and staff. Do it all with brightwheel. [Watch how it works](#) ## See why brightwheel is the childcare software of choice ![brightwheel reviews](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/themes/_brightwheel/img/social-proof-stars.webp "brightwheel reviews")4.9 | 100,000+ reviews - ![Apple Store](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/themes/_brightwheel/img/apple-2.png) - ![Google Play](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/themes/_brightwheel/img/google-play-2.svg) - ![Capterra](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/themes/_brightwheel/img/capterra-2.svg) - ![G2 Leader](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/themes/_brightwheel/img/g2-leader.webp) - ![Cloud 100](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/themes/_brightwheel/img/cloud-100.webp) - ![Capterra Best](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/themes/_brightwheel/img/cap.webp) # Rated best childcare software by educators and families ![A headshot of Kelly Rothermel, a director at Good Shepherd Learning Center in Douglassville, PA](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/kelly-r-social-proof.webp "Kelly Rothermel, Director at Good Shepherd Learning Center in Douglassville, PA") > Brightwheel reduced my workload by a third, which is huge. Any time I had to make a change, I had to spend so much time updating everything on the spreadsheet whereas now with brightwheel, it’s so simple. > > **Kelly R** > Director at Good Shepherd Learning Center in Douglassville, PA ## Why brightwheel is the #1 childcare management software Brightwheel’s childcare management software is designed to help providers save time, improve communication, and simplify every part of running a daycare or preschool program Brightwheel’s childcare management software is designed to help providers save time, improve communication, and simplify every part of running a daycare or preschool program ![An icon image of clock that represents the time-saving benefit of brightwheel.](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/easy-to-use.svg "Save up to 20 hours per month")### Save up to 20 hours per month Cut down on admin tasks and manage all areas of your program with brightwheel. ![An icon image of money that represents the billing feature of brightwheel.](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/automatic-billing-payments.svg "Get paid without chasing parents")### Get paid without chasing parents Enroll families in autopay and get paid faster while families avoid late fees. ![An icon image of heart that represents the communication feature of brightwheel.](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/quality-connections.svg "Build quality connections")### Build quality connections Enable your staff to easily communicate with families, administrators, and other staff. ![Icon image that represents childcare center management tools in brightwheel.](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/center-management.svg "Increase staff retention")### Increase staff retention 2 out of 3 teachers prefer to work at a program that uses brightwheel. ![An icon image of clock that represents the time-saving benefit of brightwheel.](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/easy-to-use.svg "Save up to 20 hours per month")### Save up to 20 hours per month Cut down on admin tasks and manage all areas of your program with brightwheel. ![An icon image of money that represents the billing feature of brightwheel.](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/automatic-billing-payments.svg "Get paid without chasing parents")### Get paid without chasing parents Enroll families in autopay and get paid faster while families avoid late fees. ![An icon image of heart that represents the communication feature of brightwheel.](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/quality-connections.svg "Build quality connections")### Build quality connections Enable your staff to easily communicate with families, administrators, and other staff. ![Icon image that represents childcare center management tools in brightwheel.](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/center-management.svg "Increase staff retention")### Increase staff retention 2 out of 3 teachers prefer to work at a program that uses brightwheel. ## Key features of brightwheel’s childcare management software ### Simplify billing and get paid faster - Invite families to online billing and autopay to get paid on time - Protect payment data with bank-level security and encryption - Connect with Quickbooks for easy accounting and taxes [Learn more](https://mybrightwheel.com/features/billing/) ![Munisha M.](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/testimonial_2.webp)“95% of my parents are now on track with payments. Before, it was really bad. Parents love that they can see exactly how much they owe, right on their phones.” Munisha M. Director at Excelsior University for Children in Seabrook, TX ### Bring families and staff closer together - Make it easy for staff to interact with families, administrators, and other staff - Send, reply to, and track messages, newsletters, and alerts in one place - Easily update families during the day with progress reports, photos, and videos [Learn more](https://mybrightwheel.com/communication/) ![Cally B.](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/testimonial_3.webp)“Parent communication has drastically improved thanks to brightwheel. Parents are more in tune with what’s going on at school, so they’re more responsive. Because brightwheel is easy and quick to use for everybody.” Cally B. Assistant Director at MBCC Journey in Birmingham, AL ### Make enrollment easier for families and your center - Accept online applications and manage your admissions without pen and paper - Use waitlists to automatically admit new students to your programs - Collect key information from existing and prospective families using digital forms and signatures [Learn more](https://mybrightwheel.com/childcare-enrollment-registration/) ![Pam M.](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/pam-m-testimonial.png)“Now, enrollment is all online on brightwheel. We no longer have manual processes where families come in and sign paperwork in the office. I don’t need to chase down families for forms anymore, because I can ensure it’s all on file before they start.” Pam M. Owner and Executive Director at Creative Learning Preschool in Denver, CO ### Support educators with curriculum and lesson plans - Add, customize, and share your curriculum with teachers - Keep families updated on their child’s development with progress reports - Add Experience Curriculum to enhance program quality with digital lessons and hands-on learning materials [Learn more](https://mybrightwheel.com/experience-curriculum/) ![Tiffany P.](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/tiffany-m-testimonial.png)“Our teachers love Experience Curriculum. Newer teachers feel more confident because they can use it as a strong foundation and build from there to support child development in their classrooms.” Tiffany P. Teacher & Curriculum Coordinator at Tarrytown Children’s Center in Austin, TX ### Run your program from your phone - Everything you do on the brightwheel mobile app syncs to the web - Message all parents at the same time or send direct messages for private conversations - Enable teachers to access lesson plans and curriculum on mobile devices [Learn more](https://mybrightwheel.com/childcare-mobile-app/) ![Mandy D.](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/mandy-d-testimonial.png)“I love being able to see it on my phone, so no matter where I go I can simply pick up brightwheel and see what’s going on with each student, family and staff member at all 9 locations.” Mandy D. Chief Operating Officer at Blossom Crew in Chicago, IL ### The most secure childcare and preschool software - Manage personal data and online payments with the highest security standards (PCI Level 1) - Ensure key updates are never missed with 99.9% uptime and 24×7 fraud monitoring - Stay compliant with contactless check-ins, health checks, sleep checks, and room ratios [Learn more](https://mybrightwheel.com/security/) ![Marc H.](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/marc-h-testimonial.png)“A child’s information is safe and secure on brightwheel. We are very conscious of security here, and the data in a student’s profile is incredibly private. I feel secure that someone won’t be able to access it unless they are allowed to.” Marc H. Owner at A Strong Start in Trumbull, CT ## What childcare businesses are saying Read more testimonials in [customer stories](https://mybrightwheel.com/customers/) ![Quote](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/themes/_brightwheel/img/redesign/quote.svg)Brightwheel has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for our program. It’s the brain of our center and manages everything from signing in and out to billing to maintaining family relationships. Audra T. Executive Director and Owner at Happy Campers Preschool in San Carlos, CA ![Quote](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/themes/_brightwheel/img/redesign/quote.svg)We were the first ones to bring brightwheel to Ellensburg when we opened 4 years ago. Since then every other center in town has adopted brightwheel. It is an amazing all in one – go to tool. Melissa & Logan Owners of Happy Feet Academy in Ellensburg, WA ![Quote](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/themes/_brightwheel/img/redesign/quote.svg)The brightwheel onboarding process is really, really helpful. They made sure I was using the tool to the best of its abilities, and they took care of uploading all the kiddos into the system. Alyssa D. Executive Director, McNeilly Center for Children in Nashville, TN ![Quote](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/themes/_brightwheel/img/redesign/quote.svg)When you do taxes at the end of the year or if you’re getting audited, all you do is go on brightwheel, download your reports, and you’re done. You can export it and send it off to your accountant. I just love it. Monique R. Owner of World Elite Academy in San Diego, CA ![Quote](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/themes/_brightwheel/img/redesign/quote.svg)I can set up a family with autopay or set a billing plan and you set it and forget it. I get to take a vacation this year! You don’t understand how much time this is going to pour back into my family. Pam M. Owner and Executive Director at Creative Learning Preschool in Denver, CO ![Quote](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/themes/_brightwheel/img/redesign/quote.svg)Get Brightwheel before you think you need it! It’s been a life-saver for us as new business owners, allowing us to focus on the families and children we serve. Kaitlyn & Kalen S. Owners at Grow Together Learning in Hilliard, OH ![Quote](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/themes/_brightwheel/img/redesign/quote.svg)Brightwheel has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for our program. It’s the brain of our center and manages everything from signing in and out to billing to maintaining family relationships. Audra T. Executive Director and Owner at Happy Campers Preschool in San Carlos, CA ![Quote](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/themes/_brightwheel/img/redesign/quote.svg)We were the first ones to bring brightwheel to Ellensburg when we opened 4 years ago. Since then every other center in town has adopted brightwheel. It is an amazing all in one – go to tool. Melissa & Logan Owners of Happy Feet Academy in Ellensburg, WA ![Quote](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/themes/_brightwheel/img/redesign/quote.svg)The brightwheel onboarding process is really, really helpful. They made sure I was using the tool to the best of its abilities, and they took care of uploading all the kiddos into the system. Alyssa D. Executive Director, McNeilly Center for Children in Nashville, TN ![Quote](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/themes/_brightwheel/img/redesign/quote.svg)When you do taxes at the end of the year or if you’re getting audited, all you do is go on brightwheel, download your reports, and you’re done. You can export it and send it off to your accountant. I just love it. Monique R. Owner of World Elite Academy in San Diego, CA ![Quote](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/themes/_brightwheel/img/redesign/quote.svg)I can set up a family with autopay or set a billing plan and you set it and forget it. I get to take a vacation this year! You don’t understand how much time this is going to pour back into my family. Pam M. Owner and Executive Director at Creative Learning Preschool in Denver, CO ![Quote](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/themes/_brightwheel/img/redesign/quote.svg)Get Brightwheel before you think you need it! It’s been a life-saver for us as new business owners, allowing us to focus on the families and children we serve. Kaitlyn & Kalen S. Owners at Grow Together Learning in Hilliard, OH ### Early education resources #### Navigate childcare licensing Download this free childcare licensing checklist to: - Understand the key steps to obtain your childcare license - Learn the benefits of being a licensed program - Access tips for maintaining compliance with ease - Get links to crucial state and federal resources ![Image](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Childcare-Licensing-and-Compliance-Checklist-interiors-1.png "Childcare Licensing and Compliance Checklist - interiors (1)")![Image](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Childcare-Licensing-and-Compliance-Checklist-interiors-1.png "Childcare Licensing and Compliance Checklist - interiors (1)") [Download now](https://info.mybrightwheel.com/checklist/childcare-licensing) ## Brightwheel vs other childcare management solutions When it comes to choosing childcare management software, not all platforms are created equal. Here’s how brightwheel stands out from the [competition](https://mybrightwheel.com/compare-brightwheel-vs-procare/) : ### All-in-one platform Unlike many providers that offer piecemeal solutions, brightwheel combines billing, attendance, family communication, lesson planning, and reporting in one easy-to-use platform. ### User-friendly design Brightwheel’s intuitive interface is loved by directors, staff, and families alike—minimizing training time and ensuring everyone stays engaged. ### Real-time family engagement While some software simply stores records, brightwheel actively connects parents to daily updates, photos, videos, and messages, strengthening trust and relationships. ### Fast, secure payments Brightwheel offers robust billing features, including autopay and online payments, so providers get paid on time without chasing invoices. ### Trusted and proven Brightwheel is used by thousands of childcare programs and schools nationwide, with industry-leading customer support and constant product improvements driven by feedback from real providers. ### Data security you can rely on Protect sensitive family and child information with enterprise-grade security standards, giving providers peace of mind. Choosing brightwheel means investing in software designed specifically for the unique needs of childcare programs—so you can save time, engage families, and grow your business with confidence. ## Who uses brightwheel childcare software? ![Icon image that represents a childcare center, preschool, or family child care program.](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/administrators-directors.svg "Efficiently run your program from one place, and stay compliant with state requirements.")### Administrators & directors Efficiently run your program from one place, and stay compliant with state requirements. [Learn more](https://mybrightwheel.com/features/) ![Icon image that represents parent-teacher communication tools in brightwheel.](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/comunication.svg "Keep in touch with teachers and staff via in-app messaging, photos, and videos.")### Parents & guardians Keep in touch with teachers and staff via in-app messaging, photos, and videos. [Learn more](https://mybrightwheel.com/solutions/parents/) ![Icon image that represents childcare center management tools in brightwheel.](https://mybrightwheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/center-management.svg "Enhance children’s learning experience, and create deeper connections with families.")### Teachers & staff Enhance children’s learning experience, and create deeper connections with families. [Learn more](https://mybrightwheel.com/experience-curriculum/) ## Frequently asked questions about childcare management software ### What is childcare management software? Childcare management software is technology designed to simplify, automate, and speed up the management of childcare centers and early childhood education programs. It helps with daily tasks such as billing, enrollment, family engagement, staff management, and record-keeping. Brightwheel is the childcare management software of choice for millions of educators in the US and Canada. ### What does childcare management software do? Brightwheel childcare management software automates administrative tasks, including billing and payments, enrollment management, communication with families, and tracking children’s activities and development. It saves time, improves efficiency, and enhances communication between educators and parents. ### Is childcare software secure? Absolutely. Brightwheel uses advanced security measures, including encryption and secure cloud storage, to protect sensitive information like child records, billing data, and family communication. Data privacy and security are top priorities for any reputable childcare management software. ### How much does childcare management software cost? Brightwheel offers transparent, all-inclusive pricing plans that scale with your program’s size and needs. Our straightforward pricing is predictable and often more cost-effective as your program grows, with no hidden fees for essential features like billing, communication, or reporting. Brightwheel’s all-in-one pricing provides exceptional value for many programs, helping you budget confidently and avoid unexpected expenses. [Request pricing information](https://mybrightwheel.com/pricing/) to see how brightwheel’s comprehensive, value-driven approach can benefit your program. ### What size education programs use childcare management software? Childcare management software is used by a range of education centers, including childcare centers, preschools, nurseries, and early childhood education programs of different sizes. Brightwheel serves both small and large centers. ### Why should my center use childcare management software? Childcare management software such as brightwheel reduces admin work and saves significant time by digitizing your records, and allowing staff to take payments, enroll students, and communicate with families online. Most childhood education centers and administrators we partner with choose brightwheel to replace spreadsheets, and pen and paper processes. ### Is brightwheel right for me? Brightwheel childcare management software is designed to meet the needs of childcare centers, preschools, and early childhood education programs. It offers a set of features to simplify administrators’ tasks and support child development. [Schedule a demo](https://mybrightwheel.com/demo/) to learn if brightwheel is a fit for your specific requirements. ### Does brightwheel connect with QuickBooks? Yes! Brightwheel is compatible with Quickbooks Online. Administrators can use the reports feature to download and transfer billing data from brightwheel to Quickbooks Online. Transferring billing data to Quickbooks enables centers to complete their accounting processes faster and without errors. Visit our [Quickbooks Compatibility Guide](https://help.mybrightwheel.com/en/articles/6321247-quickbooks-compatibility-guide) for more information. ### Can childcare software help me increase enrollment? Yes! Brightwheel’s childcare management software includes tools designed to help you boost enrollment and simplify the admissions process. With brightwheel’s waitlist feature, you can easily track prospective families, manage inquiries, and keep organized records of interested parents and children. Brightwheel lets you see real-time waitlist status, communicate quickly with families about openings, and move children seamlessly from waitlisted to enrolled. This professional, streamlined process impresses prospective families and helps you fill spots faster, ensuring your program stays at full capacity. ### Is there training or support available for using childcare management software? Absolutely. Brightwheel is committed to helping you get the most out of your childcare management software from day one. Enjoy easy onboarding with 1:1 support from a dedicated onboarding specialist, ensuring quick and seamless billing set-up tailored to your program’s needs. You’ll also have access to [brightwheel Academy](https://help.mybrightwheel.com/en/articles/7914732-overview-of-brightwheel-academy) , a comprehensive learning platform with guided training to help you, your staff, and even families master every feature of brightwheel. Plus, our speedy support team—the largest in the industry—is ready to help whenever you need it. Get fast answers through live chat with response times under one minute. Brightwheel’s support team plays a pivotal role in helping new users maximize the platform and keep their programs running smoothly. ## Benefits of childcare software for providers Childcare management software isn’t just a tech upgrade—it’s a game-changer for how providers run their programs. Here’s how the right software can transform your day-to-day operations: ### Save time on administrative tasks Automate billing, attendance tracking, and daily reports so you can spend less time on paperwork and more time supporting staff and children. ### Improve family communication Share updates, photos, and messages in real time, keeping families connected and confident in your program’s quality. ### Enhance staff productivity and retention Equip teachers and administrators with easy-to-use tools that simplify planning, documentation, and collaboration—making your program a more attractive place to work. ### Boost accuracy and compliance Reduce errors in records and reporting, ensuring you stay compliant with state regulations and licensing requirements. ### Increase enrollment and revenue Offer a modern, professional experience that appeals to families, and improve cash flow through faster, automated billing and payments. ## Common childcare center tasks that slow you down Running a childcare center involves dozens of daily tasks: Inefficiencies can add up quickly, whether you’re working manually or juggling multiple tools. If these challenges sound familiar, explore the common pain points below to see how they impact your day-to-day—and how the right software can help you save time, stay organized, and focus more on your staff and families. - [Copying and pasting attendance between tools](https://mybrightwheel.com/childcare-centers/copying-pasting-attendance-between-tools/) - [Copying and pasting billing/invoices between tools](https://mybrightwheel.com/childcare-centers/copying-pasting-billing-invoices-between-tools/) - [Copying and pasting enrollment/waitlist between tools](https://mybrightwheel.com/childcare-centers/copying-pasting-enrollment-waitlist-between-tools/) - [Copying and pasting tuition payments between tools](https://mybrightwheel.com/childcare-centers/copying-pasting-tuition-payments-between-tools/) - [Depositing subsidy/vouchers manually at the bank](https://mybrightwheel.com/childcare-centers/depositing-subsidy-vouchers-manually/) - [Collecting attendance manually from families](https://mybrightwheel.com/childcare-centers/collecting-attendance-manually-from-families/) - [Collecting billing/invoices manually from families](https://mybrightwheel.com/childcare-centers/collecting-billing-invoices-manually-from-families/) - [Collecting enrollment/waitlist manually from families](https://mybrightwheel.com/childcare-centers/collecting-enrollment-waitlist-manually-from-families/) - [Collecting subsidy/vouchers manually from families](https://mybrightwheel.com/childcare-centers/collecting-subsidy-vouchers-manually-from-families/) - [Collecting tuition payments manually from families](https://mybrightwheel.com/childcare-centers/collecting-tuition-payments-manually-from-families/) ## Review the latest ECE insights & resources about childcare software - Business - Blog post ### 9 Essential Features of Childcare Management Software Discover the 9 essential features of childcare management software. Streamline your childcare program, automate billing, and enhance family communication. [Read Now](https://mybrightwheel.com/blog/9-essential-features-of-child-care-manager-software) - Brightwheel - Blog post ### How to Introduce the Brightwheel App to Your Teaching Staff Successfully introduce the brightwheel app at your childcare program with this step-by-step guide and get your staff excited about the benefits of new technology [Read Now](https://mybrightwheel.com/blog/how-to-introduce-the-brightwheel-app-to-your-teaching-staff) - Business - Guide ### Practical Guide for Selecting Childcare Management Software A free guide to simplify your decision-making process and help you choose the best childcare software for your program. [Download](https://info.mybrightwheel.com/guide/selecting-childcare-management-software) ### Tour the easiest all-in-one childcare and preschool app