child care teacher

preschool teacher

early childhood teacher

childcare provider

teacher

Bright Horizons Family Solutions

Overall, you do feel a sense of purpose with the children because you are not just there to babysit. You were there to teach. However, they are not a long-term career goal center.
If you’ve never worked or have very limited  references for this career and bright horizons seems great! If you fit in, you are able to blend into your work and go home. But they do not like any independent, thinking any initiative that is outside the direct supervisor or management ability to receive credit. With many private care centers their main priority is their clients. This means optics how things look to the parents not that how things actually are. I was told the turnover rate was high because of the pandemic. However, working there for four months for people quit that had been there for over a year for the same exact reason on the same exact team. When I told upper management and my direct supervisor of the toxic environment , like in everything else, they use language to divert the attention back to having to be grown-up ““ and deal with things that’s pretty much the bright horizons philosophy. They will ask you or guilt you into doing things that are beyond your paygrade. Then they will take credit for it.  so when you have to meet with them, they’re already prepared to belittle you and discredit you. That’s their version of communication. There was a lot of nepotism because of their referral program.  Also, all their on boarding and training is online. Which sounds great. No more in-service days right? However all these teachers with limited experience are able to click and complete many trainings that they don’t understand in practice and even though they have a lead teaching coach, the lead teaching coach. “has no time in their job to hold peoples hands“even know she’s scheduled to do so and we deal with children so for their benefit a child center should make it a priority to ensure their teachers have the right training skills to address their classroom. For example, I worked on a team or one classroom even though the teachers were there for over two years had very poor classroom management skills , and as a result constantly needed enhance ratio which was provided by the contract they held with their clients. However, because I didn’t push on the fact that I was never trained on curriculum, I wasn’t sure of some of the best practices, however, they were implemented I was told to figure it out, and if something goes wrong, she will step in and let me know.  With successfully building relationships with the family, the children, the curriculum and classroom management enrichment activities. I found myself getting more on my plate as my lead coach in my presence took direct credit for things she was never involved in while the ratio was advertised for three teachers in a classroom to teachers and to support staff , for the entire time I worked there it was just I. and a co-teacher that had only been in the field for one year. Anyone who’s ever taught young toddlers knows that the more eyes and hands in the situation the better it goes. However, my support staff was directed to the two other rooms were the teachers were consistently failing . When I asked for support for documentation and communication with the parents, I was told to be a team player and that it’s hard to constantly be working on everyone’s problems because “I have my own work to do” how do not been for the awesome parents and the beautiful kids and my ability to make the best out of any situation I was able to endure. And anytime it even looks like I had a suggestion or something to say I was told “ you have nothing to complain about. You get paid well much better than other centers, and it could be worse “ so if you don’t mind having to deal with negative attitudes criticism from people who aren’t even on your team and don’t know you and the constant lack of support, you can work here to build up your career and go to another center.
Oh, and I’ve tried multiple times to take advantage of their career advancement, opportunities, and educational opportunities to no avail and much run around. Sure, they love to offer the CDA but not much else.
The lunch is a 30 minutes, they do not pay you for professional development or mandatory meetings. For example, they will schedule you 38 hours on the weeks you have a staff mandatory meeting for two hours so they only total up to 40 hours that week. See what I mean sneaky.

If you want a new job that is a step in the direction of a strong and stable career that supports you, challenges you and allows you to work independently. This is it. The interview process was very straight forward and typical questions, two management employees asking questions and answering. I feel they look for eager and sociable employees. DO NOT WASTE PEOPLES TIME AND NOT WANT TO WORK. I've seen people in my training class so far that should not have been hired due to them being constantly late to work or not applying themselves at all during training. Do not just everyone that works here a favor but yourself and don't come here. You'll most likely come back to this site and say a bad review YOU made the experience bad, not the company. They put a lot of time and effort into training and supporting you none stop. They offer variety of work schedules to choose from. The title is an understatement really to what this job has to offer. I am a case manager and I have to say this is the most thorough training I've ever been through however its unnecessary to have the teacher ringing bells to get peoples attention. Its childish a bit and annoying lol it works don't get me wrong but that's just me. When I went from the training room to the office space, I was prepared enough to manage on my own without asking too many questions or not knowing what to do. People don't hover here which is good. They really do set you up with success and let you fly on your own if you want. If you don't know or learn your job its because you didn't put in the effort because there are plenty of people ready to help and assist you. The management doesn't feel like management, yes they are you higher up but they don't treat you like you are separate from them. Do your job right to the best of your ability and own up to your mistakes and people are very understanding here. They know no one is perfect and we make mistakes, let them help you fix it and learn from your mistake. Attendance is very to the point, be at your desk as scheduled. Its not a big deal when you WANT to work, show up late often and you will be fired. Pretty simple and accommodating points system when it comes to how many times you can be late before your talked to then fired. Take your job seriously and don't be late. The breaks/lunches could be a little longer for working 8 hours but its really something I personally just had to get used to but it makes my day go faster. Always giving free food every time I look around lol they promise to make you gain 20 lbs. Personally I feel the company cares for their employees, now this could just be because my location and building is built on friendly people and fun atmosphere, I don't know about other locations but mine is what I've always been looking for when it comes to a place to work. I'm finally happy where I work.

9 hour day with an hour for lunch. Start pay: $7.00 without degree; $10 with degree & teaching certificate. You MAY get $12 after 6 months and a promotion to lead teacher; depends on location. After a year, raise is 24 CENTS/hour. They want to boast certified educated teachers but pay them cheap.

Training is a joke. 8 holidays, only 7 are paid, They advertise travel assistance, but give nothing. The insurance is expensive. Unless you have a child, there is no benefit for you--childcare for your child is discounted. The turnover is extreme; not surprising given the circumstances.

Management is just concerned with keeping the $ coming in, which means cutting corners on supplies and "teacher" salaries.

If you want to teach and get paid, do not work here. The only way to make money at BH is to go into management and no longer teach.

My experience at BH was largely negative. The only thing that makes it worthwhile is the children and some of the parents.

There is absolutely NO time during the work day to plan lessons. There are no BH lessons--you must write them up on your own.

There is no potty training policy. This, combined with the disparity in the age levels of the children, is disastrous. It isn't uncommon for a class to consist of 20 kids between the ages of 2.5 and 4.5. It is very hard to "teach" a group of 20, with a co-teacher, in these age levels, when you're changing "accidents" or non-accidents all day long. Some preschools have a 2.5 requirement. I have kids who are 4 and still having bms in diapers, or daily accidents in training paints. This should fall on the parents! Come on people; teach your kids how to use the toilet. It really isn't the school's job to teach this, only to assist in what you as parents are teaching at home. This also doesn't mention the children's illnesses, including vomiting, that you, as a teacher, are responsible for tending to without proper cleanup tools.

It is a horrible place to work because there is no appreciation for your hard work as a caregiver and teacher. There is poor pay, and there is hardly ever a "thank you" or "good job", except from the best of parents. BH will "reward" you with an annual bite to eat and a printed or xeroxed "award." Rarely will you get a compliment from management. Management wants you to believe that you are lucky you work for BH.

Sick days are discouraged, and if you take one you're chastised. Also, if you don't use them, you don't get paid for them, so there is that disparity between those who take sick time with pay and those who do not. Its quite unfair. Pay for the sick day you use is at management's discretion. Also, you earn time off at a snail's pace.

BH wants a lot from you as an employee, but gives little in return. How it has earned a spot in the "best places to work" list escapes logic.

Tuition reimbursement is minimal and a one-time occurrence. Don't be reeled in by the hype -- the hype is just very excellent PR.

A typical day at work for me would be to arrive early and make sure the classroom was ready to start the day. 
    After clocking I would go to the opening room to see if any of my children had arrived and if so sign them out and head to our room. If I didn't have any children, I would ask the teachers if they needed anything  and if they did help them with whatever it was. I would then go to my classroom and prepare the centers, changing area and bathrooms for the day.
    When the children would arrive I would greet them with a hug and welcome the parent and ask them how their morning was going. The parent and I would briefly discuss the child's night and morning and say our goodbyes.
    The children would have some quiet activities to do while music was playing in the background until the other children would arrive. Before breakfast we would go to the carpet for a quick good morning to each other, wash our hands and sit down for breakfast. The children would serve breakfast family style.
    After breakfast the children would empty their plates, wash hands and faces, use the bathroom or get their diaper changes and head to the carpet for circle time.
    During circle time we sang songs, listened to stories and answered the question of the day. After circle time the children would pick a center where they wanted to go or if it was our commons or outside time we would do that instead.
    After our morning activities it was time to get ready for lunch and then naptime. During naptime I would prepare what was needed for the next day's activities. When naptime was over it was time for snack, afternoon activities and wait my the parents to pick up their child. 
    When a parent came into the room to pick up their child they were greeted, asked about their day and told about their child's day. Goodbyes were said and then time to clean the room.
    While working at Bright Horizon's I have made lifelong friends with my co-workers and the management. I know that if I ever need anything form them all I would have to do is ask. The families that I have met will be apart of my life forever and I even stay in contact with the families to see how the children are doing. 
    The hardest part of this job is watching the children you have in your classroom move onto another classroom and calling a parent to tell them that their child has gotten hurt or is sick.
    The most enjoyable part of this job is watching the children learn and grow each day. When you see a child's eyes light up when they have accomplished something is a wonderful feeling!

Local management, quite frankly, ruined my experience. My role was ever-changing, which allowed the administration to use myself (and others) as scapegoats when something went awry. Likewise, when something within the purview of the administration did go wrong, I neither saw them take responsibility nor did they ever make an effort to rectify those issues. The administration held performance reviews and one on ones that were mostly used for gossip about other employees and not for actual performance improvement. Given the nature of my role, employees complained directly to me about rumors and gossip they had become aware of. Similarly, a handful of employees expressed discontent with the fact their employment offers were not being honored. Many were promised certain pay rates/raises, time off, child care discounts, and promotions that never materialized. I, myself, was promised a raise after 3 months that I was never given. I was likewise granted time off for a holiday in my acceptance of the job. Upon returning from my vacation, I was greeted with remarks of "must have been nice to have that time off while we were all working" and “not all of us got to take that much time off like you did.” So sure, you can take time off, but prepare to be endlessly reminded and berated for doing so. This is an indicator of bad culture. My role was also consistently undermined by the administration. A number of my direct reports were strangely promised my job by the administration. Further compounding the issue, the administration would interrupt me during presentations, cut me off, and correct me in front of employees in what seemed to be a weird power play. Problematically, the administration was only present about 50-60% of the time, frequently leaving at 1 pm, and claimed to be "working from home" at least 1-2x per week. This perk was not offered to other administrative staff even when asked for it. The regional-level administration only compounded some of these issues. They, too, engaged in what some may define as seditious gossip-inducing behavior. Among the regional leadership, one person in particular was caught – and documented – on multiple occasions lying about direction they had given, lying to clients (oof), routinely throwing others under the proverbial bus and so on. This person made desperate attempts at saving face, which cost them their reputation within the company and eventually their job. The final straw for me was being told I needed to stay much later than what was promised to me during my interviews and offer. The work-life balance had become too heavy on the "work" with too little effort made to support employees’ life outside of work.

I was very anxious about working for this company because of all the bad reviews. I still accepted the position because I like to make my own judgement, and boy was I ridiculous to do so. Let me start with the classroom. The rules of the classroom are very simple to follow and teaching the kids is fun. The supervisors are never satisfied though. The documentations are wrong, lesson plans wrong, this wrong, that wrong (even though it was so right the week before). Things are always changing and no matter how hard you try-it is never good enough. Teaching toddlers is difficult as is, and the ridiculous things they make the kids do are tragic. 15 minute circle-do you realize that ONE minute for a toddler is like 10 minutes for us? Of course, once the kids are no longer interested it's the teachers fault. They have to have "family style" dining which is so nice, HOWEVER 18mo olds will not be able to eat with spoons and forks (some will but most are still BABIES). Who gets in trouble-the teachers. They disregard the developmental stages completely, and God forbid the child is not developing as fast as their peers. This bothered me SO much, I mean SO much. It was mini prison for the children, follow the rules and shut up basically.
Now, let me talk about management because this is an even bigger joke. There is absolutely no support, no appreciation for your hard work, no standing behind employees. Someone gets hurt on the job-it's their issue, someone is sick and can't come in-they actually give you ATTITUDE and threats over the phone, someone isn't doing the job to the full-fire them. They have a tragic business practice and treat people like dirt, which many of the reviewers will back this up 100%. The "director" of my center was rude, not approachable, and back-stabbing. She did not give people a chance to state their opinions, worries, or their sides in case some issue arose. I was on the job for 5 months, and saw 6 teachers leave (run would be a more appropriate word to be honest).
I was excited for this position, but now I am so glad I left. I am HAPPY. I used to drive to work already mad I was going to be there and anxious every day about what "wrong" I was going to do that day. This is not what a way to to "hire people with HEART and enable them to use all of their talents in a respectful, collegial work environment". Yeah I call BS and you will be making yourself a huge favor by avoiding this place and looking for a position that will respect you as an individual. I'm happy I did.

Every day when we enter a room of children we do a head/ name count to make sure our totals are the same as the previous teacher in the room. We do morning activities with stretches and songs. Before leaving the room for enrichment, would do potty / diaper time. If weather allowed we would spend 20-25 minutes on the age appropriate playground. After coming in and washing hands and again doing potty/ diaper time, we would begin a craft. After craft/science I would encourage my friends to help clean up the table before they have free play. Next lunch would be served at 11:45 and the children would eat their food while sitting together at the table. My room would combine with the "Two's" for nap so the Two year old teacher & I could break each other for lunch. After nap the children would do potty time, wash hands then come to the table for a snack. Shortly after that most children would get picked up from their parents. 
I learned how to multi-task, but only at the right time as to not get distracted from the children. I also learned to foresee events so I knew when I would have to step in if a child became upset over a toy or personal space.
My director and assistant director were both amazing women. My assistant director was also the "Three's" teacher. I shared a personal story with her one day, and the next day she brought me a bouquet of flowers. She also helped me with research regarding one child I had that was a biter. My director was always helpful with my schedule and working it so I could either open or close depending on my personal life. My director took us out for a Christmas dinner party and bought us all a personalized gift as well as a gift card. One day she made a special breakfast for the employees who showed up when the roads were covered in snow. She went out of her way to assure we were a happy team, and it was all worth it.
My co-workers were also all great at their jobs and we all bent over backwards to help each other out with printing papers, cleaning rooms, lending books or props.
The hardest part of my job was nap time. There were always 3-4 children who refused to nap, and didn't know yet how to whisper, and didn't understand the importance of "stay on your cot" because there was only 1 teacher in the room during nap with 12 children while the other teacher was on her lunch break.
The most enjoyable part of my job was when the children learned my routines and when I heard one girl, not yet 2, but counted to 11 all by herself.

Along with caring and promoting independence and self-help skills for growing infants/toddlers to pre-kindergarten leveled children, teachers plan weekly curriculum based on interests of the children using hands-on project approach. Curriculum provides families to be in touch with what their children are doing at school and also allows them to be involved in classroom activities or events. Teachers also provide day to day highlights specifically for each child that is to be brought home usually including their child's strengths or what they are currently working on that day. We also create newsletters monthly that illustrates all the events and projects our classroom has experienced. A typical classroom day would include plenty of outdoor play, sensory projects, creative art activities, sometimes field studies or field trips all depending on the type of curriculum we are focusing on that month. I have learned exponentially since working at Bright Horizons about interacting with children that best allow them to learn on their own. I learned how to work as a team with my co-teachers and allowing each teacher to use their strengths and supporting each other even during stressful times. I've learned how to also manage our time efficiently with the amount of prep time we are allowed that day, always planning ahead whether it is for curriculum, planning events, preparing children for activities, or even scheduling breaks for each teacher. I would say the most difficult part of the job is usually when a co-teacher(s) call in sick and having to manage the classroom with a substitute teacher(s) for the day who may not know how to deal with the children and is not familiar with classroom routines. I really enjoy working with children and creating new ways for them to learn. Finding support and respect from your co-teachers, families, and lead administration definitely makes a huge difference in a teacher's work performance. I love being involved in planning out curriculum with my teammates and thinking of fun and eventful ways that would really appeal to our kids and that would also have families be involved in what we are doing. I also appreciate that Bright Horizons have allowed teachers the freedom to create our curriculum as we fit for our children in the classrooms. Finally, I love witnessing the growth and development of our children and seeing that what we are teaching them has really made a difference in their lives.

-A typical day at work does get pretty busy. There are a few times during the day where you'll have a chill time with not much to do but most of the time, you are working on something. You will have a lot of opportunities to work on different skills throughout the day.
-Management was mostly great but there was a lot of talking about employees with other employees and hypocrisy. They did show appreciation toward employees with gifts and treats very often such as merch, weekly shoutouts, and fun events (breakfast in staff lounge, outside activities, etc.). The culture amongst teachers can be a little gossipy but not too bad overall. Management doesn't really seem to have a handle on workplace conflict amongst teachers so you'll have to probably take matters into your own hands if you have a problem with someone. (That sounded sinister but I meant have conversations in your downtime lol) Management does do a great job with helping with mental health. They often will let you go home early and will help accommodate to your needs. Very understanding in that sense.
-You will receive on the clock training for as long as you need. This has helped me refresh and regain my motivation for teaching when I was feeling especially low.
-There is an opportunity to get your credentials (even your AA and bachelors degree) for free if you so please. They will give you an hour on the clock to complete some of the online training.
-Easily accessible to transit; for $25 per paycheck, you can have an unlimited transit pass! (Omg I sound like an ad)
-Once a month staff meetings where dinner will be provided
-The pay is pretty good (not amazing) with opportunities for a raise
-The hardest part of the job was the strain mentally and physically. Took me years to get a routine that worked best for me so I could do my very best daily. This company does ask a lot of things to be done in one day so workload/policies may get overwhelming at times but management does a good job sending support if you call and ask!
-The most enjoyable part of the job is the relationships you build around you- the kids, the parents, and your coworkers. It is the learning that you will do. It is the free hot coffee in the morning, the center wide pride parade, the funny videos made for Instagram. It is the moment of pride you feel when you watch a kid succeed in something they've struggled with for months. This place is more than just a job, it is once in a lifetime experience.

Bright Horizons is an awesome company to work for! I love my home center, and the other centers in my area have been great when I subbed at them too. My admin team is absolutely amazing, and they've been super supportive at every turn.

When I started working here, I was honest about my undiagnosed sleep disorder, and I often struggled in the mornings, but they were always flexible and understanding. I'd worked there for almost 2 years when we found out I have narcolepsy. When I was struggling with medication changes, they really stepped up to the plate to help me. They're always willing to accommodate my needs if things change.

I've never been able to work a normal full-time schedule, but my managers don't let me feel guilty about it. I work as much as I can and give it my all when I'm able to be there, and they help me figure out the rest. Most of the time, I only work 20-30 hrs/week, but I'll happily jump into any classroom, or even the kitchen when needed!

They provide excellent training and continuing education beyond what our state requires, and I've learned so much about teaching and ECE without paying a cent! Bright Horizons also pays tuition, books, and fees if you want to earn a certificate or degree in ECE.

The best part of the job is definitely the kids and coworkers! I love everything about the center I work at. I've also worked alongside our regional manager several times during staffing shortages, and she's really friendly and welcoming.

The hardest parts of the job are definitely the things outside of work: trying to pay the bills with the wages, health insurance + other benefits aren't available unless you work 30+ hours, and the long 10 hour days. However, my hourly wage has come up substantially since I started working here, so they're definitely working to improve things.

One final note: I've really appreciated how proactive and attentive the company has been during the COVID-19 pandemic. The enhanced protocols, vaccination incentives, and testing policies really exemplify their commitment to the ongoing health and safety of their staff and the families they work with!

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