Quick Overview
- 1#1: Brightwheel - All-in-one childcare management software with real-time attendance tracking, touchless check-in, and parent notifications.
- 2#2: Procare - Robust childcare solution offering automated attendance tracking, family engagement, and regulatory compliance reporting.
- 3#3: HiMama - Mobile-first app for childcare providers featuring daily sign-in/out, photo sharing, and attendance analytics.
- 4#4: Tadpoles - Early education platform with secure attendance logging, parent updates, and daily reports for childcare centers.
- 5#5: Famly - Cloud-based childcare tool providing attendance management, billing integration, and parent app for easy check-ins.
- 6#6: Jackrabbit Care - Childcare management system with attendance tracking, scheduling, and automated parent alerts via mobile app.
- 7#7: EZChildTrack - Affordable childcare software focused on electronic attendance, invoicing, and family portal access.
- 8#8: ChildCare Manager - Integrated platform for childcare operations including attendance monitoring, staff scheduling, and compliance tools.
- 9#9: ChildPlus - Enterprise software for Head Start and childcare programs with detailed attendance tracking and outcome reporting.
- 10#10: ChildWatch 24-7 - Secure electronic sign-in/out system for childcare with real-time attendance updates and emergency notifications.
Tools were chosen based on key factors including robust attendance capabilities, ease of use for staff and families, additional features like reporting or communication, and overall value, ensuring they deliver reliable performance across varied childcare scenarios.
Comparison Table
Efficient childcare management hinges on reliable software, particularly for tracking attendance, and this table compares leading tools like Brightwheel, Procare, HiMama, Tadpoles, and Famly. It explores key features, usability, and suitability for varied center needs, helping readers identify the best fit for their operations. Learn how these platforms streamline attendance tracking and support daily childcare workflows effectively.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brightwheel All-in-one childcare management software with real-time attendance tracking, touchless check-in, and parent notifications. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | Procare Robust childcare solution offering automated attendance tracking, family engagement, and regulatory compliance reporting. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | HiMama Mobile-first app for childcare providers featuring daily sign-in/out, photo sharing, and attendance analytics. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Tadpoles Early education platform with secure attendance logging, parent updates, and daily reports for childcare centers. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 5 | Famly Cloud-based childcare tool providing attendance management, billing integration, and parent app for easy check-ins. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | Jackrabbit Care Childcare management system with attendance tracking, scheduling, and automated parent alerts via mobile app. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.9/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | EZChildTrack Affordable childcare software focused on electronic attendance, invoicing, and family portal access. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 8 | ChildCare Manager Integrated platform for childcare operations including attendance monitoring, staff scheduling, and compliance tools. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 9 | ChildPlus Enterprise software for Head Start and childcare programs with detailed attendance tracking and outcome reporting. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 10 | ChildWatch 24-7 Secure electronic sign-in/out system for childcare with real-time attendance updates and emergency notifications. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.4/10 |
All-in-one childcare management software with real-time attendance tracking, touchless check-in, and parent notifications.
Robust childcare solution offering automated attendance tracking, family engagement, and regulatory compliance reporting.
Mobile-first app for childcare providers featuring daily sign-in/out, photo sharing, and attendance analytics.
Early education platform with secure attendance logging, parent updates, and daily reports for childcare centers.
Cloud-based childcare tool providing attendance management, billing integration, and parent app for easy check-ins.
Childcare management system with attendance tracking, scheduling, and automated parent alerts via mobile app.
Affordable childcare software focused on electronic attendance, invoicing, and family portal access.
Integrated platform for childcare operations including attendance monitoring, staff scheduling, and compliance tools.
Enterprise software for Head Start and childcare programs with detailed attendance tracking and outcome reporting.
Secure electronic sign-in/out system for childcare with real-time attendance updates and emergency notifications.
Brightwheel
specializedAll-in-one childcare management software with real-time attendance tracking, touchless check-in, and parent notifications.
Advanced contactless check-in with facial recognition and auto parent alerts for unmatched security and convenience
Brightwheel is a leading all-in-one childcare management platform designed specifically for daycare centers, preschools, and after-school programs, with robust attendance tracking at its core. It provides secure, real-time check-in and check-out via PIN codes, NFC badges, facial recognition, and QR codes, automatically notifying parents and generating accurate attendance reports. The software integrates seamlessly with billing, parent messaging, photo sharing, and lesson planning, streamlining daily operations for childcare providers.
Pros
- Highly accurate and versatile attendance tracking with multiple contactless methods like facial recognition and NFC badges
- Real-time parent notifications and comprehensive reporting for compliance and insights
- All-in-one platform that combines attendance with billing, communication, and daily updates
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers can be costly for very small childcare operations
- Occasional mobile app glitches reported during peak hours
- Advanced customization requires time to master
Best For
Mid-sized to large childcare centers and preschools seeking an integrated attendance and management solution.
Pricing
Essential plan at $10/child/month (billed annually), Plus at $15/child/month, and custom Enterprise pricing; free for single providers.
Procare
enterpriseRobust childcare solution offering automated attendance tracking, family engagement, and regulatory compliance reporting.
Procare Express Check-In kiosks with touchless options like facial recognition and RFID for secure, high-volume attendance tracking
Procare Software is a veteran childcare management platform specializing in attendance tracking for daycare centers, preschools, and after-school programs. It offers flexible check-in/out options including PIN pads, touchless kiosks, RFID badges, and a parent mobile app for real-time updates. Beyond attendance, it seamlessly integrates with billing, scheduling, and reporting features to support comprehensive center operations. With decades of reliability, it's trusted by thousands of facilities nationwide.
Pros
- Multiple attendance tracking methods including PIN pads, kiosks, and mobile app for flexibility
- Real-time data syncing with family notifications and detailed reporting
- Deep integration with billing and child management for operational efficiency
Cons
- User interface feels somewhat dated compared to newer cloud-native competitors
- Initial setup and training require significant time investment
- Pricing scales quickly for smaller centers with fewer children
Best For
Mid-sized to large childcare centers needing a reliable, all-in-one system with proven attendance accuracy.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at $137/month base fee, plus per-child fees (around $1-2/child/month) and add-ons for advanced features.
HiMama
specializedMobile-first app for childcare providers featuring daily sign-in/out, photo sharing, and attendance analytics.
Award-winning Family App for touchless check-ins, instant daily reports, and secure photo/video sharing directly with parents
HiMama is a comprehensive childcare management platform with robust attendance tracking features tailored for early childhood centers. It enables seamless sign-in/out via mobile apps, PIN codes, or kiosks, automatically generating accurate daily attendance reports and compliance documentation. The software integrates attendance with parent communication tools, daily digital sheets, photo/video sharing, and curriculum planning for a holistic childcare solution.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile check-in/out with facial recognition and PIN options for quick attendance
- Strong parent app for real-time updates and two-way communication
- Detailed attendance reports and analytics for compliance and insights
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for very small centers with per-child fees and minimums
- Full feature set has a moderate learning curve for new users
- Limited third-party integrations compared to some competitors
Best For
Medium-sized childcare centers needing an all-in-one platform with exceptional parent engagement and reliable attendance tracking.
Pricing
Per child per month starting at ~$10/child (Essentials plan), up to $15+ for premium tiers; includes minimum fees and custom quotes based on center size.
Tadpoles
specializedEarly education platform with secure attendance logging, parent updates, and daily reports for childcare centers.
Integrated daily sheets with photos, videos, and attendance logs shared instantly to parents
Tadpoles is a childcare management software focused on simplifying daily operations for preschools and daycare centers through robust attendance tracking and parent communication tools. It enables digital check-in/out, real-time updates on children's activities like meals, naps, and incidents, and seamless sharing of photos and reports via a dedicated parent app. The platform also supports progress tracking and compliance reporting, making it a versatile solution for attendance management.
Pros
- Strong parent engagement with real-time photo and update sharing
- Reliable touchless check-in/out and attendance tracking
- User-friendly mobile apps for staff and families
Cons
- Limited third-party integrations compared to competitors
- Pricing scales quickly for larger programs
- Some advanced reporting requires higher-tier plans
Best For
Small to medium childcare centers prioritizing parent communication alongside accurate attendance tracking.
Pricing
Starts at $5 per child/month for basic plans, up to $12+ per child/month for premium features; billed annually.
Famly
specializedCloud-based childcare tool providing attendance management, billing integration, and parent app for easy check-ins.
Real-time parent app providing instant notifications on attendance, meals, naps, and child photos
Famly is a comprehensive all-in-one childcare management platform tailored for nurseries, preschools, and childcare centers, with robust attendance tracking at its core. It enables real-time check-ins and check-outs via a mobile app for parents and staff, automated attendance reports, and compliance with regulations like Ofsted. Beyond attendance, it integrates billing, staff scheduling, child observations, and parent communication to streamline daily operations.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile app for seamless parent and staff check-ins
- Comprehensive reporting and compliance tools for attendance
- Strong integration of attendance with billing and observations
Cons
- Pricing scales with number of children, costly for small providers
- Some advanced customization requires higher-tier plans
- Initial setup and staff training can take time
Best For
Medium-sized nurseries and preschools seeking an integrated platform with excellent parent engagement features.
Pricing
Starts at £89/month for up to 50 children; scales to £1.25-£2 per child/month with custom enterprise quotes.
Jackrabbit Care
specializedChildcare management system with attendance tracking, scheduling, and automated parent alerts via mobile app.
Touchless check-in via QR codes and PINs with instant photo verification and parent alerts
Jackrabbit Care is a comprehensive cloud-based childcare management software focused on streamlining attendance tracking, check-ins, and daily operations for childcare centers. It features secure mobile and kiosk-based sign-in/out systems with photo verification, real-time attendance dashboards, and automated parent notifications. The platform integrates billing, scheduling, staff management, and reporting to provide an all-in-one solution for childcare providers.
Pros
- Robust attendance tracking with photo capture and real-time reports
- User-friendly family portal and mobile app for parents
- Strong multi-location support and integrations with payment processors
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small centers
- Initial setup and customization require time
- Customer support response times vary
Best For
Mid-sized to large childcare centers needing integrated attendance and management tools.
Pricing
Starts at $65/month per location for basic plans, scaling to $150+ for premium features; custom quotes for enterprises.
EZChildTrack
specializedAffordable childcare software focused on electronic attendance, invoicing, and family portal access.
Lightning-fast touchscreen kiosks with PIN or facial recognition for seamless, queue-free child sign-ins
EZChildTrack is a cloud-based childcare attendance software tailored for daycare centers, preschools, and after-school programs to manage child check-in and check-out efficiently. It offers touchscreen kiosks, PIN or photo-based sign-ins, real-time attendance tracking, and automated parent notifications via app, text, or email. The platform also includes basic reporting, billing integration, and compliance tools for licensing requirements.
Pros
- Ultra-simple touchscreen check-in/out kiosks that minimize lines
- Reliable real-time parent notifications and mobile app access
- Affordable per-child pricing with no long-term contracts
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics features
- Fewer third-party integrations compared to enterprise competitors
- Customization options are basic and not highly flexible
Best For
Small to medium childcare providers seeking a straightforward, low-maintenance attendance tracking solution without complex setup.
Pricing
Pay-per-child model starting at $0.99/child/month (minimum $29/month), with tiered plans up to enterprise options; free setup and trial available.
ChildCare Manager
enterpriseIntegrated platform for childcare operations including attendance monitoring, staff scheduling, and compliance tools.
Family-shared PIN system for instant, secure multi-child check-in/out
ChildCare Manager is a cloud-based childcare management platform that provides robust attendance tracking features, including PIN or badge-based check-in/out for children and real-time status updates for parents and staff. It integrates attendance data with billing, scheduling, and parent communication tools to streamline daily operations in childcare centers. The software emphasizes security and efficiency, with mobile apps for on-the-go access.
Pros
- Secure PIN/badge check-in/out system minimizes errors
- Real-time attendance dashboards and parent notifications
- Strong integration with billing and child profiles
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly with center size
- Some advanced reporting requires higher tiers
- Mobile app lacks offline functionality
Best For
Medium-sized childcare centers needing integrated attendance tracking alongside billing and parent portals.
Pricing
Starts at $59/month for up to 50 children; custom quotes for larger centers, with add-ons for extra features.
ChildPlus
enterpriseEnterprise software for Head Start and childcare programs with detailed attendance tracking and outcome reporting.
Advanced compliance-focused attendance reporting that automates federal and state requirements for Head Start programs
ChildPlus is a comprehensive child care management software tailored for Head Start programs and large early education centers, with strong attendance tracking capabilities including mobile sign-in/out, real-time monitoring, and automated compliance reports. It integrates attendance data with enrollment, billing, health tracking, and family engagement tools for a holistic solution. While robust for regulated environments, it emphasizes scalability over simplicity for smaller operations.
Pros
- Robust real-time attendance tracking with mobile app and photo verification
- Excellent compliance reporting for Head Start and state regulations
- Integrated family portal for seamless parent communication and updates
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive feature set
- High cost unsuitable for small child care centers
- Interface feels dated compared to modern competitors
Best For
Large Head Start programs or child care centers requiring full-spectrum management with strong regulatory compliance.
Pricing
Custom pricing based on program size and modules; typically $5-12 per child/month with annual contracts and implementation fees.
ChildWatch 24-7
specializedSecure electronic sign-in/out system for childcare with real-time attendance updates and emergency notifications.
Touchscreen kiosk system for secure, quick PIN-based child check-ins and real-time status updates
ChildWatch 24-7 is a cloud-based childcare attendance software tailored for daycare centers and preschools, offering real-time check-in/out tracking via kiosks, mobile apps, and PIN codes. It automates parent notifications for arrivals, departures, and late pickups while generating compliance reports for licensing requirements. The system also supports staff scheduling and basic billing integration to streamline daily operations.
Pros
- Robust real-time attendance tracking with kiosk and app support
- Automated parent alerts and communication tools
- Strong reporting for regulatory compliance
Cons
- Setup and kiosk hardware can be costly upfront
- User interface feels dated compared to modern competitors
- Limited integrations with popular accounting or payment systems
Best For
Medium-sized childcare centers needing reliable kiosk-based attendance and compliance reporting.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month for up to 50 children, scaling to $2-5 per child/month; custom quotes and hardware extra.
Conclusion
The top 10 childcare attendance software tools each offer valuable features, but Brightwheel shines as the leading choice, thanks to its seamless all-in-one management, real-time tracking, and touchless check-in capabilities. Procare and HiMama follow closely, with Procare excelling in compliance and engagement, and HiMama impressing with its mobile-first design—both making strong alternatives for varied operational needs.
To elevate your childcare management, start with Brightwheel to experience its intuitive tools; if you prioritize compliance or mobile access, Procare and HiMama are excellent options to explore.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison