Side by side
Child Care Management System (CCMS) vs ParentLink
Both stand on early childhood education software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Self-hostedWeb
CCMS provides a broad child-care management starting point without a software fee. Its initial maturity, platform-dependent capabilities, and self-hosting security responsibilities require careful implementation planning.
Visit Child Care Management System (CCMS) Free plan Web
ParentLink combines operational, communication and learning-journal tools for childcare settings, with several paid capacity tiers and a free option. Consider the child limit and web-only access when choosing a plan.
Visit ParentLinkThe facts
| Child Care Management System (CCMS) | ParentLink | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Self-hosted, Web | Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Starter 50: £50 a month |
| Plans published | 2 | 5 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | github.com | parentlinkeducation.co.uk |
| On early childhood education software | #19 of 86 | #15 of 86 |
Child Care Management System (CCMS): what it does well
- MIT-licensed open-source project
- Manages enrollment and waitlists
- Tracks attendance and child records
- Includes billing and payment tracking
- Supports parent and staff notifications
What to know first
- Features depend on the chosen platform
- Free bots or services are not applicable; project is initial version
- Docker scripts are not production secured
- SeaTable may lack parent logins
ParentLink: what it does well
- Free plan has no time limit and requires no card.
- Supports learning journals across five named curricula.
- Pro trial lasts 14 days without a card.
- Exports CSV statements for Xero, Sage and QuickBooks.
What to know first
- Free plan is limited to 15 children.
- No mobile apps are listed.
- Accounts move to Free after the trial unless upgraded.
Alternatives to Child Care Management System (CCMS) Alternatives to ParentLink The whole list