If you own a child care establishment, then you should find child care software that will allow you to make operations run smoothly. Child care software will include several key features, like child information, billing, payroll, scheduling and more.

A child care software provider can give you a comprehensive system that can complete all of the tasks needed to operate your child care center. Instead of buying multiple programs, you can purchase a single software program.

1. Get child care software information. Learn about the different programs on the market and how each measures up. You may want to make a child care software list that details the advantages and disadvantages of each program.

2. Find child care software providers. Work with several different providers in order to get the lowest quote on your desired software.

3. Install the child care software program into your establishment. Most programs require little training and can be installed without outside assistance.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use a child care software directory

In order to start looking for child care software information, you can browse directories to see the features available on different programs. Once you find the website for the program, you can likely take a virtual tour to see how the software works.

I recommend: Browse the child care software list on Capterra in order to choose a program for your facility.

Contact a child care software provider

Once you find a software program that you like for your establishment, you can start contacting providers that carry that program. Request that the company provides a free demonstration of the program prior to making your final purchase.

I recommend: My Daycare Software has several different software packages that buyers can choose from. Options include packages for home based day care centers, small centers with less than 30 children and more than 30 children. Childcare Manager has numerous programs to choose from with features like time management, child statistics, nutritional information and more. Check out these other child care software programs: Daycare Works, Controltec and Kinderstreet.

Buy and install child care software

After you make arrangements to purchase child care software, you can set up installation. Most programs will only require that you run a disc on each of the computers in your network in order to start using the software. You should plan to arrange training sessions to teach employees how to use the new program.

I recommend: If you decide to buy ProCare Software for your child care facility, you’ll have the ability to access free training and support tools. Training options include online tutorials and custom training sessions. Orgamation gives buyers’ access to three online training sessions that each last 50 minutes.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Remember to look at the safety feature incorporated into your selected child care software. For example, many programs now feature the ability to store the photos of a child and the person approved to pick her up from the facility.