More preschools and daycare centers are using childcare software today than ever before. What's more, many parents are now requesting — or expecting — it, showcasing the need for streamlined communication with a technology-forward mindset.
In the past, pen-and-paper reports were how staff communicated about a child's day. Tuition bills were sent through snail mail. Field trip signatures were collected manually by teachers. Parents signed kids in and out of the classroom by hand. Not only are all these types of communication time-consuming, but many carry a significant cost consideration. After all, printouts and postage aren't free.
While childcare software does become a budget expense, many centers find the cost to be comparable or less than what they were spending on communication systems previously, plus the time-saving benefits are significant. Furthermore, when parents want the best for their kids, being able to advertise your tech-savvy communication becomes a marketing advantage that can boost enrollment.
There are many different types of childcare software, but some of the main benefits include:
- Simple attendance management from a computer or tablet, which promotes safety and accurate recordkeeping.
- Easy-to-fill-out daily reports for each student that highlight every activity, from eating and napping to educational lessons and mood.
- Improved and ongoing communication between staff and caregivers, which promotes deeper engagement in a child's education.
- Simplified billing and document management for families through a private, secure platform.
While there are many positives to childcare software, there is one big drawback: potentially less face-to-face interaction with parents. While the software is great at informing parents, it can become a barrier to in-person communication that can be critical to forming a team mentality that can benefit a child's educational development.
To complement the use of childcare software and encourage a deeper relationship between teachers and caregivers, it may be necessary to take a few proactive steps. Here are some ideas:
- Host open house days at the beginning of the year for families to come and visit in a casual environment so you can get to know one another.
- Set up weekly opportunities for parents to volunteer in the classroom doing things such as helping during crafts or reading at story time.
- Host special events that bring families in and encourage bonding, such as holiday brunches or birthday sing-a-longs.
- Maintain an open-door policy so caregivers know they can always stop by in person with any thoughts or concerns.
- Prioritize pickup and drop-off periods by being fully present for kids and parents, offering warm greetings or goodbyes.
Childcare software doesn't make sense for every center, but for those who are able to implement it, directors often hear positive feedback from both staff and student families. Consider your options and do what's right for you!
More preschools and daycare centers are using childcare software today than ever before. What's more, many parents are now requesting — or expecting — it, showcasing the need for streamlined communication with a technology-forward mindset.