Resources & Recommendations
At Level Up ECE,
I promise to lead the way
I've researched, tested, and created what’s missing in preschool administration so you don’t have to. My goal is to give you the best and fewest options necessary to run an organized, efficient program. I want to provide you with tools and strategies that streamline your operations, so you can focus on creating a smoothly run, thriving program that you love.
Notion
Program Managment
THIS IS IT - THIS IS THE ONE!!! The day I discovered Notion was honestly one of the most exciting moments of my life (ranking just after getting married and the birth of my kids!). Notion is the all-in-one platform I had been dreaming of, and I know it's exactly what preschool owners and directors have been waiting for, too! Imagine a space where you can completely customize everything—from attendance tracking to waitlists, parent portals, internal communications, HR, and so much more. It's truly the platform that can do it all!
Now, while Notion has incredible capabilities, it doesn't come pre-built for ECE programs. That’s where I come in! You can totally DIY it and figure out how to set everything up, or you can save yourself the time and effort with a fully customized template I’ve created just for preschools with the Navigator Program.
1 Password
Password Managment
If you’re like me, managing passwords can feel like an endless headache—especially when you’re running a busy preschool. That’s why discovering
1Password was a game changer! It securely stores all your passwords in one place, so you never have to worry about forgetting or resetting them again. Plus, it generates strong, unique passwords for each site, keeping your sensitive data safe and sound. Whether it's for logging into parent portals, HR systems, or anything else, 1Password makes managing everything a breeze. Trust me, it’s the ultimate tool for peace of mind in a world full of passwords!
Canva
Design and Creation
Canva is the ultimate design tool for ECE professionals who want to create stunning visuals without the need for a graphic design background. Whether you're working on parent newsletters, event flyers, marketing materials, or social media posts, Canva makes the process incredibly simple and efficient. With its easy-to-use interface and a vast library of customizable templates, you can design professional-quality visuals in just minutes. Why struggle with complicated software when Canva allows you to create and share eye-catching designs effortlessly?
From crafting beautiful newsletters to engaging social media graphics, Canva has you covered. It offers templates tailored to your preschool's unique needs, saving you time and ensuring everything looks polished and professional. Let Canva handle your design needs so you can focus on running your program, communicating with families, and making a meaningful impact in the classroom.
QuickBooks Online
Bookkeeping & Accounting
When it comes to managing your preschool’s finances, using the right tool can make all the difference. That’s why I recommend
QuickBooks Online.
QuickBooks Online is a must-have tool for any preschool or early childhood education program looking to stay on top of their finances. It’s the gold standard in accounting software, designed to make managing your books easier and more efficient. Whether you're tracking tuition payments, expenses, or generating financial reports, QuickBooks simplifies everything with its intuitive, user-friendly platform. Unlike other all-in-one management systems that also handle bookkeeping, QuickBooks is built specifically for accounting, so you know you’re using the best tool for the job. After all, you wouldn’t hire a roofer to do your taxes, so why use software that isn't dedicated to your financial needs?
To get the most out of QuickBooks, I highly recommend finding a QuickBooks ProAdvisor. These certified experts are trained to help you set up and manage your QuickBooks account, and many specialize in industries like early childhood education. A ProAdvisor who understands the unique financial needs of preschools can ensure your system is tailored perfectly for your business, from tracking student payments to managing payroll and expenses. You can easily find a ProAdvisor in your area through the QuickBooks website, and I recommend seeking out one who has experience working with ECE programs to get the best results.
Gusto
Payroll & HR
Gusto is an essential tool for handling payroll and HR needs in your preschool or early childhood education program. With its user-friendly interface and robust features, Gusto takes the stress out of managing payroll, benefits, and compliance, ensuring you stay on top of these critical tasks without the headache. Unlike some all-in-one platforms that try to manage HR and payroll as a secondary feature, Gusto is built specifically for this purpose, so you can trust it to handle your staff's needs efficiently and accurately. Don't rely on software that doesn't specialize in these areas!
What’s great about Gusto is that it’s customizable to your needs, and you can find HR professionals or consultants who specialize in working with preschools or small businesses in early childhood education. Additionally, Gusto integrates seamlessly with popular accounting programs like QuickBooks, making your financial management even more streamlined. Just like with your accounting system, I recommend finding a provider or consultant who understands both Gusto and the specific needs of your industry. This ensures that your payroll, benefits, and HR compliance are handled with the utmost care and expertise.
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Map & Checklist of ECE Admin Workflow
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I’m a former preschool director turned systems expert and the creator of the Navigator program. Welcome to my corner of the ECE world! Come on in, make yourself comfortable, and let's get started on making your preschool admin life easier! - Megan
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