One of the World’s Largest Child Care Networks

Founded in 1986, Bright Horizons has grown into one of the world’s most recognized names in early education and employer-sponsored child care. Operating more than 1,010 centers globally, with roughly 600 in the United States across approximately 38 states, the company serves a licensed capacity of approximately 115,000 children worldwide.

Bright Horizons primarily partners with employers to offer child care as a workplace benefit, giving working families access to high-quality early education backed by consistent standards and deep operational expertise. The company is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: BFAM).

With a workforce spanning thousands of educators, administrators, and support staff, Bright Horizons has built its reputation on the belief that quality early childhood experiences, delivered consistently at scale, can shape lifelong outcomes for children and families alike.

Discovery Driven Learning, A Research-Based Teaching Philosophy

Bright Horizons’ approach to early learning is anchored in the Discovery Driven Learning™ framework, paired with the World at Their Fingertips® curriculum. This research-based, whole-child model emphasizes play, curiosity, hands-on discovery, social-emotional learning, STEM, literacy, the arts, and individualized development.

Rather than following a rigid script, the curriculum draws on developmental theory while prioritizing responsive relationships and joyful learning environments. Educators are trained to observe and build on each child’s natural curiosity, making the relationship between child and teacher the centerpiece of every classroom.

Ages served: Typically 6 weeks through preschool/kindergarten (approximately age 5–6), with many locations also offering school-age and back-up care. Bright Horizons is a secular, non-religious organization.

Recognized for Excellence Across the Industry

Many Bright Horizons centers hold NAEYC accreditation, the gold standard in early childhood education, reflecting a commitment to the highest standards in curriculum quality, staff qualifications, and learning environments.

The company consistently earns “Best Places to Work” recognition from the Boston Business Journal, Great Place to Work (UK and Netherlands), Denver Post, and Newsweek. The Horizons Teacher Degree Program actively supports educators in earning credentials and degrees.

Parent satisfaction: Individual Google ratings for centers typically range from approximately 4.0–4.8, varying by location. Company-reported parent satisfaction surveys are consistently high across their global network.

Programs, Access, and How to Connect

Programs & care: Bright Horizons serves children from 6 weeks through kindergarten (approximately age 5–6) at most centers. Many locations also offer school-age care and back-up care programs for older children.

Subsidy & food programs: CACFP and CCDF participation is determined at the individual center level and depends on state and local eligibility. Many centers accept child care subsidies and vouchers where eligible.

Contact: Headquarters, (617) 673-8000 | Parent services, (866) 854-1958 | brighthorizons.com