Crestmont Capital Blog

Leasing Tablets and Childcare Management Software

Written by Mariela Merino | September 8, 2025

Leasing Tablets and Childcare Management Software

Running a childcare center involves more than supervision—it requires careful scheduling, parent communication, attendance tracking, and compliance reporting. Many centers are turning to childcare management software paired with tablets to streamline operations. But upgrading technology can be costly, with hardware and software licenses easily totaling $10,000–$50,000+ depending on the size of the center.

That’s why leasing tablets and management software has become a smart option for daycares, preschools, and after-school programs.

Why Lease Instead of Buy?

  • Lower Upfront Costs – Avoid expensive hardware and software purchases.

  • Predictable Monthly Payments – Easier to align with tuition revenue cycles.

  • Upgrade Flexibility – Always access the latest tablets and software features.

  • All-in-One Packages – Many providers bundle hardware, software, training, and support.

  • Tax Benefits – Lease payments may be deductible as operating expenses.

Equipment and Software Commonly Leased

Tablets – For teachers to track attendance, meals, and lesson plans.
Childcare Management Platforms – Parent communication, billing, and compliance tools.
Kiosks/Check-In Systems – Secure parent drop-off and pick-up tracking.
POS & Payment Systems – For tuition billing and reporting.
Wi-Fi & Networking Equipment – Reliable connectivity for tablets and cloud software.

Leasing Options Available

1. Operating Lease

  • Lowest monthly payments.

  • Tablets and software returned or upgraded at lease-end.

  • Best for centers that want the latest tech every few years.

2. Capital Lease (Lease-to-Own)

3. Technology-as-a-Service (TaaS)

  • One monthly fee covering tablets, childcare software, support, and updates.

  • Best for centers without in-house IT support.

Example Leasing Scenario

A preschool with 75 students wants to digitize operations:

  • 15 Tablets for Staff = $9,000

  • Childcare Management Software (3-Year License) = $12,000

  • Parent Check-In Kiosk = $4,000

Total Investment: $25,000

With a 3-year TaaS lease, payments are about $725/month, including support and updates. If digitizing operations reduces administrative labor by just 10 hours/week, the savings already outweigh the lease cost.

Tips for Success

✔ Choose vendors that specialize in education and childcare leasing programs.
✔ Bundle tablets and software into one financing package.
✔ Negotiate training and tech support as part of the lease.
✔ Align lease terms with your enrollment or grant cycles.
✔ Track ROI by measuring efficiency, parent satisfaction, and reduced paperwork.

Final Thoughts

For daycares and preschools, leasing tablets and childcare management software is a practical way to modernize operations, improve parent communication, and boost compliance without large upfront costs. With predictable monthly payments and the ability to stay updated with the latest technology, childcare providers can focus more on children—and less on administration.