Side by side
ChildWare 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.
Paid Web
ChildWare brings Pennsylvania-specific compliance, records, finance, and attendance work into one web service. Its lack of mobile apps and unpublished pricing are important considerations.
Visit ChildWare 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
| ChildWare | ParentLink | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | No | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Web | Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Starter 50: £50 a month |
| Plans published | 2 | 5 |
| Maker | ChildWare | Not published |
| Website | childware.org | parentlinkeducation.co.uk |
| On early childhood education software | #80 of 86 | #15 of 86 |
ChildWare: what it does well
- Tracks Pennsylvania DHS requirements
- Includes child and family records
- Supports automated billing
- Handles attendance and meal reporting
- Provides implementation assistance
What to know first
- No free plan
- No mobile apps
- Capacity listed as 16 children
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 ChildWare Alternatives to ParentLink The whole list