brightwheel - 2026 Pricing, Features, Reviews & Alternatives

Reviewers appreciate brightwheel's Communications Management capabilities. They report that it enables real-time communication between parents, teachers, and administrators through messaging, email, or app notifications. Users find it helpful for sharing updates, photos, and documents, and for managing both individual and group messages. They say it has significantly improved communication, especially during emergencies or lockdowns. Some users mention the need for improvements like deselecting individual children in group messages and better message organization to avoid confusion. Of the 96 brightwheel users who gave detailed accounts of their use of Communications Management, 99% rated this feature as important or highly important.

See related user reviews

“Communicating with our parents is a breeze whether through a mass or single notification. My teachers are able to easily reach out to parents, to let them know the details of their child's day. This was critical during "covid". Our center was locked down. Parents no longer went to the rooms to pick up their child. Therefor they didn't get to see the teacher or their child in action. Through BW our teachers sent pictures and daily antidotes, along with reports on lunch, bathroom use, and incidents.”

MH

Marcia H.

director

“Here are some reasons why "Communications Management" is important in "brightwheel":1.Efficient Communication: "brightwheel" enables schools and childcare providers to communicate with parents and caregivers in real-time using messaging, email, or app notifications, reducing the need for phone calls or paper-based communication.2.Centralized Communication: "Communications Management" provides a centralized platform for all communication between schools and parents, ensuring that everyone is on the same page.3.Customizable Messaging: "brightwheel" allows administrators and teachers to customize their messaging for different groups or individuals, ensuring that the right message gets to the right person.4.Data Analytics: With "Communications Management," administrators and teachers can track communication data and analyze trends, enabling them to optimize their communication strategy and improve engagement.”

Shivam D.

system engineer

Reviewers highlight the brightwheel Parent Portal as a valuable tool for maintaining transparency and engagement. They report that it allows parents to access real-time updates on their child's activities, communicate with teachers and administrators, and view photos and videos. Users appreciate the ability to manage documents, registration forms, and payments through the portal. They find it convenient for staying informed about their child's progress and daily activities. Some users mention occasional technical issues when using the portal across multiple centers. Of the 117 brightwheel users who gave detailed accounts of their use of Parent Portal, 97% rated this feature as important or highly important.

Users report that brightwheel's Alerts/Notifications feature is essential for staying informed about their child's day. They appreciate receiving real-time updates on activities, meals, and emergencies directly to their smartphones. Reviewers find it helpful for timely communication about school closures, upcoming events, and important announcements. They say it provides peace of mind by keeping them connected and informed. Some users suggest improvements like consolidating alerts for families with multiple children to reduce notification frequency. Of the 85 brightwheel users who gave detailed accounts of their use of Alerts/Notifications, 92% rated this feature as important or highly important.

Reviewers indicate that brightwheel's Daily Reports are a helpful aspect for keeping parents informed about their child's daily activities and progress. They appreciate receiving detailed updates on meals, naps, learning activities, and behavior. Users find it useful for tracking attendance, developmental milestones, and maintaining clear communication with teachers. They say it enhances transparency and allows parents to feel more connected to their child's day. Some users mention the need for customizable sections and better report organization. Of the 97 brightwheel users who gave detailed accounts of their use of Daily Reports, 85% rated this feature as important or highly important.

Reviewers feel that brightwheel's Attendance Tracking is a valuable characteristic for ensuring accurate record-keeping and monitoring student attendance. They report that it allows for easy check-in and check-out, helps maintain proper staffing ratios, and supports billing and subsidy claims. Users appreciate the ability to track attendance patterns and identify issues promptly. They find it convenient for both parents and administrators. Some users mention the need for additional capabilities like date range inputs and improved report accessibility. Of the 101 brightwheel users who gave detailed accounts of their use of Attendance Tracking, 84% rated this feature as important or highly important.

Reviewers highlight brightwheel's Payment Processing as an efficient and time-saving capability. They report that it allows for automatic payments, credit card transactions, and easy access to invoices and receipts. Users appreciate the reduction in late payments and the convenience of managing billing plans and payment histories through the app. They find it beneficial for both parents and administrators. Some users mention concerns about convenience fees and the need for combined payments for families with multiple children. Of the 72 brightwheel users who gave detailed accounts of their use of Payment Processing, 79% rated this feature as important or highly important.