Resources for Parents & Caregivers
Life is happening all around us. Bright Horizons Family Concierge, Back-Up Care, and Enhanced Family Supports™ are here to help, whether you're a parent, have an aging parent of your own, caring for an adult or looking for other services like tutoring support, pet care, or housekeepers.
T Mobile Family Concierge Powered by Bright Horizons:
Managing care for the people you love just got easier. With Bright Horizons
Family Concierge, a Care Expert partners with you 1:1 to understand
your family’s needs and create a personalized care and education plan. Your Concierge
brings experience in child care, coaching, social work, teaching, and senior care.
Save time, reduce stress, and make the most of your Bright Horizons benefits.
Family Concierge is designed to support you both personally and professionally—no matter where you are in your journey:
Care Options for Your Family
Find ongoing local care, fill gaps in your schedule, or arrange temporary backup support.
Education Support & Coaching
Work with experts to reach your education goals and support your child’s learning.
Guidance & Well Being
Explore proven resources that offer practical and proven advice.
Get Started
Learn more about Bright Horizons Family Concierge. Visit Bright Horizons Family Concierge to join now!
Bright Horizons Back-Up Care and Enhanced Family Supports include:
Back-Up Child and Adult/Senior Care
- Child Care in high-quality centers for well children, screened in-home caregivers for well or mildly ill children is available. Care recipients may include infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children
- Adult/Senior care available in your home or theirs. Care recipients may include parents, grandparents, in-laws, siblings, adult children
- Access 10 days of back-up care in a center or in your home each year
- Daily center-based care is $15/child or $25/family and in-home care is $4/hour.
Full-Time or Part-Time Child Care at a Center
- Get preferred enrollment if there is a waitlist, plus registration fee credit upon enrollment at a community accepting Bright Horizons child care centers throughout the U.S.
- Up to 10% tuition discount for child care at a participating network center throughout the U.S. (La Petite, Childcare Network, Cadence Education, Nobel Learning Communities, etc.) Log on to see which provider is available in your area
Academic Supports
- Revolution Prep: Premium academic support and test preparation for grades K–12. Benefit: 15% discount; one-on-one tutoring ranges $79–$159/hour, and small-group packages start at $159 for five hours.
- Varsity Tutors: Virtual tutoring in 3,000+ subjects, plus online classes, camps, and extracurriculars for ages 5–18. Benefit: 20% discount on most programs.
- Sylvan Learning: In-person and virtual tutoring tailored to your child’s strengths and aligned with state standards. Benefit: 15% discount on most Sylvan services.
Sittercity Access
- Premium membership to a leading nationwide search tool for nannies and sitters, pet sitting, and housekeeping
- Waived membership fee ($150 value) and free basic background checks
Nanny Placement
- Discounts on a local, high-touch nanny placement service for trained, screened nannies
- Request a nanny that is trained as a learning coach to support online instruction
Elder Caregiving Through Years Ahead
- Take a needs assessment online for your loved one
- Learn about eldercare options
- Access eldercare resources
- Get guidance on finding senior care providers near you
Provider Contact
Visit MyBrightHorizons to get started!
Once you create a MyBright Horizons account and log in to the portal, you can access all of your Back-Up Care and Enhanced Family Supports benefits by clicking "All Benefits" under "Browse Your Benefits."
Discounted Offerings
- Working Parents - T-Mobile Perks at Work (So many resources! Click on this link and filter down to what you really need)
- Childcare and Preschools (Search for options near home or work)
Overview: Bright Horizons Enhanced Family Supports (EFS)
T-Mobile USA, Inc. has partnered with Bright Horizons® to help you better manage your many work, family, and personal responsibilities.
Bright Horizons Enhanced Family Supports™ offers valuable discounts on top child care, tutoring, summer camp and STEM learning providers and elder care for your family. Services include:
- Unlimited access to a national network of flexible babysitters, nannies, pet sitters, housekeepers, and elder care companions
- Local, personalized placement service that will help you find a full-time or on-call nanny
- Special privileges for full-time child care, such as preferred enrollment and waived registration fees at Bright Horizons centers
- Exclusive elder caregiving resources
- Tutoring, STEM programs, summer camps, and small-group classes for school-age children
- Parental leave, caregiving, medical, and developmental resources for expecting and new parents
- Dedicated support to find full-time care providers convenient for you as well as a marketplace of local classes, camps and activities for out-of-school and after-school
Sittercity – Marketplace to Connect with Local Caregivers
What services are included with Sittercity?
Sittercity is an online network that makes it easy for working families to connect with local, in-home babysitters, nannies, and caregivers for the whole family. Sittercity provides a variety of tools to help you connect with and screen caregivers who are uniquely qualified to fulfill your needs.
How do I access the service?
To create an account on Sittercity, visit your Bright Horizons benefits page and search for “Sittercity.” From there, you will be able to view all of the Sittercity benefits offered to you through your employer. These benefits include access to finding local nannies and babysitters, housekeepers, special needs childcare, pet care, adult companion care, and childcare adventures. Click on the service that resonates with the need you are looking for. You will then be routed to create an account on Sittercity. You can also go directly to sittercity.com/bh-benefits, enter in your employer and you will be directed to your specific company sign-up page.
How long will it take to find a nanny or a sitter for my family?
Each family need is unique and the time it takes to find a caregiver depends on your screening process and available caregivers in your area.
Creating a job post is the easiest way to find the care you need. Once you post your job it’s then immediately shared with local caregivers who meet your requirements. Families typically start receiving applications within a day—you can then begin to screen and evaluate the caregivers who have applied to your job to see if they’re a good match for your family. You can also search for local caregivers by using Sittercity’s search tool. Enter in your zip code to find caregivers available in your area and directly reach out to those you feel would be a good fit for your family.
What discounts are available as part of my benefit?
Your employer has sponsored access to Sittercity’s Premium Membership at no cost to you, including free Basic Background Checks and discounts on Enhanced Background Checks and Motor Vehicle Checks.
A Premium membership includes: Unlimited job postings, direct Messaging with caregivers in your area, access to caregiver references and reviews, Interview scheduling and real human customer support
How do I find a caregiver on Sittercity?
Posting a job on Sittercity is the fastest way to connect and find caregivers that best fit your family’s needs. Once you post a job you will start receiving applications from interested candidates directly to your inbox.
After posting a job, you can also search for caregivers in your area. Use your zip code and search results will automatically show caregivers in your area. You can use search filters to find caregivers who: are available on a specific date and time, have a certain level of experience, are within a certain distance, have access to a car, speak specific languages, and more.
Once you have found a caregiver that meets your needs, you can run a variety of background checks. Sittercity also provides detailed resources and support to help you understand the pricing in your area, how to interview caregivers, and how to set up your new caregiver for success when they start.
How do families hire trustworthy caregivers?
Families can find caregivers on Sittercity who are passionate about providing safe and enriching care for their family. Selecting the right caregiver is a big decision. Sittercity provides tools to help you narrow down your options and hire with confidence.
Screen caregivers by reviewing all applications and messaging directly with interested applicants through Sittercity’s secure messaging platform. Review caregiver profiles to better get to know the provider and their level of experience. Caregiver profiles include CPR or First Aid certification, reviews from families they’ve previously worked with, prior experience caregiving, education, and additional responsibilities they are willing to help with such as meal prep, light housekeeping, homework help or transporting kids to activities.
Interview caregivers by conducting phone or virtual screenings or arrange to meet in person.
Evaluate if they are the right fit by requesting professional references, reading reviews from other families, and running background checks.
What sort of vetting does Sittercity do of caregivers?
Sittercity’s dedicated Trust & Safety team champions safety across the platform every day.
Caregivers go through an identity verification process with Berbix when registering an account. Additional safety measures include Family Watchdog screening and fraud prevention.
Background checks can also be processed on caregivers at any point to ensure the most current information, which is why we do not require caregivers to complete background checks during registration. To determine whether a caregiver has recently completed a background check through Sittercity, look for a dated badge displayed on the caregiver's profile under the 'Trust & safety' section. We strongly recommend processing background checks on caregivers prior to hiring them.
Because Sittercity is not an agency, we do not interview caregivers, check references, nor verify reported certifications or credentials. We do, however, empower parents with the tools to make informed decisions.
How do I contact Sittercity for support?
Please reach out to Sittercity's Customer Success team at support@sittercity.com with any questions you may have.
Nanny Placement & On Call Sitters
What services are included with this benefit?
Jovie works with families to provide fun, well-trained, long-term nannies and on-call sitters who are equipped with the tools and support they need to bring order and joy to homes.
How does the nanny placement process work?
This service is offered through Jovie and starts with a family consultation to establish your family's unique needs. After signing up with a local Jovie office and paying the one-time registration fee, they will evaluate your schedule, your children's ages, job duties, interests, and desired experience and attributes for your perfect nanny. As candidates are identified you will receive an electronic profile for review and arrangements will be made for candidate interviews. Jovie will follow up with both your family and the candidate to ensure both parties feel it is a great fit before moving forward. After selection, orientation will be provided for the new nanny and Jovie is available to help with the process of settling in for an exceptional experience. The nanny placement fee and hourly charges for care will be paid by you directly to the local Jovie office.
Is there a placement fee to hire a Jovie on-call sitter?
A placement fee is only applied to full-time and long-term nanny placements, not for on-call sitters. Families interested in a Jovie sitter will pay the one-time registration fee to their local Jovie office and then only pay the sitter’s hourly rate when care is used.
How do I access the service?
To connect with Jovie, visit your Bright Horizons benefits page and navigate to “Nanny Placement.” This will bring you to the Jovie website, where you can submit a short inquiry form. Your local Jovie office will make contact within 48 hours to begin the consultation process to learn more about your care need and if a nanny or a sitter would be the right choice for your family.
Do all nannies and sitters have a college education?
Most nannies and sitters have completed some type of post-secondary education. Many are either current college students or recent college graduates.
How are the nannies and sitters screened and trained?
A comprehensive background screen is conducted by an accredited national background screening agency and includes state and federal criminal history, National Sex Offender database check, and address history. This is completed as part of securing a nanny or sitter and comes at no additional fee to families. During initial orientation, all nannies and sitters must take training courses on child safety, security, child development, and age-appropriate fun. For ongoing training, Jovie offers videos, print resources, resource directories, the most up-to-date tools available, and the ongoing professional guidance of the local Jovie team. You can also elect to be matched with a nanny who is trained as a learning coach to support students with online instruction.
How long will it take to find a nanny or sitter for my family?
This process usually takes 2–6 weeks depending on your family’s unique needs. In the meantime, Jovie takes care of your immediate childcare needs through reliable sitters. Jovie sitters offer a temporary solution for childcare families need while Jovie finds the right ongoing nanny for your family. If you are interested in hiring an occasional sitter for date night, school closing, or temporary arrangement, call your local Jovie office — they can help you get set up with care you need when you need it.
What discounts are available as part of my benefit?
You will receive 50% off the Jovie one-time registration fee ($200) for your nanny or sitter.
What happens if our nanny or sitter doesn’t work out?
Jovie provides a replacement nanny at no additional charge, if required for any reason, during the first 12 weeks of the placement. If you are interested in changing sitters, your local office or MyJovie app can help facilitate that search.
How do I contact Jovie for support?
Jovie is a national franchise spanning 125 offices across 28 states. You can find and contact your local Jovie office for support: https://www.jovie.com/bh/
Center-Based Child Care
What is Preferred Enrollment?
Preferred Enrollment allows you to gain access to available full-time child care spaces in Bright Horizons centers ahead of the general community.
Will discounts be offered at Bright Horizons centers?
Discounts are not offered at Bright Horizons centers.
Do I have to pay a registration fee to enroll?
Your registration fee at Bright Horizons centers is waived through Preferred Enrollment. When selecting a center from your Bright Horizons benefits page, download the available coupon, print it, and bring it with you when you visit.
If I move my child to another Bright Horizons center, will the new registration fee be waived?
Yes. If you enroll your child at a new Bright Horizons center location that accepts Preferred Enrollment, your registration fee will be waived. This is also true for enrolling multiple children.
Where can I receive tuition discounts?
Your Bright Horizons benefit provides you with a discount of up to 10% off child care tuition at participating centers in our partner network (excludes Bright Horizons centers).
Which age groups are eligible for a tuition discount at participating centers?
Tuition discounts vary by center, and in some cases are available only for children ages 2 and older. Check with your preferred network center for details.
Can I receive the discount if my child is already enrolled in a participating center?
If you are currently enrolled in a participating network center that offers a tuition discount, please reach out to your center director to inquire about your Bright Horizons discount. Some discounts are only available for new enrollments. Please refer to your benefit website to identify the discounts available to you. Discounts cannot be applied retroactively.
How do I find child care centers that offer Preferred Enrollment and Tuition Discounts?
Visit your Bright Horizons benefit page and navigate to the “Secure Full-Time Care in a Quality Child Care Center” or “Child Care Centers” tile. This will bring you to the center search feature, where you will be able to browse and explore center options in your area.
Is care available for family members with special needs?
We make every effort to accommodate care recipients with special needs, which may include physical, emotional, or developmental challenges.
Full-Time or Part-Time Child Care Options (Family Care Centers)
What services does Wonderschool offer?
Wonderschool provides a marketplace of 60,000+ child care programs across 47 states that are vetted for quality and safety. Wonderschool is your personalized, time-saving answer to finding trusted child care and early education close to home with easy enrollment.
What discounts are offered through my benefit?
You get free access to a dedicated team to find you care that fits your needs. You’ll share what you’re looking for and the Wonderschool experts will do the searching for you – researching and finding local, high-quality care and education in a setting you'll feel great about. And because it’s part of your benefits, the service is at no cost to you. No guesswork or searching – all the work is done for you to find trusted child care programs across the U.S., all vetted for quality and safety.
How do I contact Wonderschool for support?
You have access to a dedicated, live support team, Monday–Friday, 9–5p online, email, live chat or via phone. You may also request support through My Bright Horizons or your employer-specific landing page.
Steve & Kate’s Camp
What types of services are available?
Enroll your child in camp spaces at Steve & Kate’s locations across the country, with an exclusive discount.
How does Steve & Kate’s Camp work?
Steve & Kate’s runs camps that operate around your needs, where kids take chances and shape their experience, choosing from a number of creative, active, enriching, and — of course — fun activities each day. Built for working families, Steve & Kate’s operates on a flexible model with refunds for any unused passes at the end of the summer.
How do I access the service?
Visit your Bright Horizons benefits page, then navigate to the “Camp” or “Summer Days Camps” tile. You’ll be guided to Steve & Kate’s registration to set up your account and activate your special savings.
What are the qualifications of Steve & Kate’s staff?
After 40 years of running camp, Steve & Kate’s has a knack for finding caring counselors who are ready to roll up their sleeves, play hard, and champion kids’ passions. All counselors are background checked and CPR/First Aid Certified; plus they get ongoing training and support from camp directors.
What discounts are offered through my benefit?
Get $15 off per day when you reserve a week or multiple weeks of camp. Or enroll your child for the whole summer and get $300 off.
Who can I contact if I need help?
Please reach out to your local Steve & Kate’s team with any questions! Visit the Steve & Kate’s site via your Bright Horizons benefits page and select your preferred location to see contact details for the local team.
Before and After-School Programs
What types of services are available?
Enroll your child in safe, engaging, and meaningful extracurricular programs to support their learning and provide you with peace of mind. Get discounts on a variety of classes and camps through ActivityHero and Right at School through your benefits.
How do I access providers?
In the My Bright Horizons search bar, search for each partner below by name. Locate the tile for the partner you’re searching for and click to navigate to the partner portal for use.
What services does ActivityHero offer?
ActivityHero offers camps, classes, and extracurricular activities for children grades K–12. You can search, compare, and register for various kids’ activities, including sports, arts, STEM, and academic programs.
How does ActivityHero work?
Browse a wide range of programs as well as read reviews, compare prices, and filter out options to find the most suitable care for you. Once a program is found, register directly on the ActivityHero website, making it easily accessible for future reference as well.
What discounts are offered through my benefit?
Up to 5% off all paid camps and classes.
How do I contact ActivityHero for support?
By scrolling to the bottom of the ActivityHero website, you will find a hyperlink named “contact us,” that will direct you to support.
Right at School
How does Right at School work?
Right at School offers before- and after-school programs on-site at elementary and middle schools across the country. Students attend daily Right at School programs in the same school they attend for daytime instruction — without the need for transportation to an off-site location.
How do I access the service?
Visit your Bright Horizons benefits page and navigate to the “Before- and After-School Care” section on the site. This will take you to the Right at School site, where you can click “Find Your Program” to see if programs are offered at your child’s school.
What are the qualifications of Right at School’s staff?
Right at School staff are dedicated and experienced educators with a passion for working with children. As part of their focus on safety, all employees must pass rigorous background checks and meet local school district requirements. In addition, their commitment to providing enriching academic and social experiences is supported by extensive professional development, training, and mentorship for all Right at School educators.
What discounts are offered through my benefit?
You get a 10% discount on Right at School programs.
Who can I contact if I need help?
Contact your local program with questions. Visit the “Find your program” feature via your Bright Horizons benefits page and select your local program from the list for contact details. Or call 855-AT-SCHOOL.
Education Support and Tutoring
What types of services are available?
Your Bright Horizons benefit gives you easy access to high-quality tutoring, test-prep, and academic support providers, offering a variety of online and in-person options with exclusive discounts.
How do I access education support and tutoring providers?
In the My Bright Horizons search bar, search for each partner below by name. Locate the tile for the partner you’re searching for and click to navigate to the partner portal for use.
Revolution Prep
What services does Revolution Prep offer?
Revolution Prep offers premium academic support and test preparation for students in grades K–12, including personalized tutoring with a curriculum tailored to each child’s needs and interests—and step-by-step test preparation with a full-time, highly trained tutor.
What discounts are offered through my benefit?
You receive a 15% discount off tutoring rates. You pay between $79 and $159 per hour for one-on-one tutoring with the discount, depending on the experience level of the tutor and the number of sessions purchased. A five-hour package for small-group tutoring is $159 with the discount.
How do I contact Revolution Prep for support?
You can call Revolution Prep at 877-738-7737.
Varsity Tutors
What services does Varsity Tutors offer?
Varsity Tutors offers virtual tutoring in one-on-one and small group formats on more than 3,000 subjects. When families sign up, they are assigned an educational consultant who helps identify the best tutor for their needs from more than 40,000 available tutors and instructors. Also offered are hundreds of enriching online classes, camps, and extracurriculars for children ages 5–18, as well as online learning tools including instant homework help, adaptive testing, and learning labs.
What discounts are offered through my benefit?
You receive a 20% discount off most programs. With Varsity Tutors, one-on-one tutoring starts around $50 per hour with the discount. Discounted group classes start at $10 per hour, with an average price of $20 per hour.
How do I contact Varsity Tutors for support?
You can call Varsity Tutors at 800-828-6354.
Sylvan Learning
What services does Sylvan offer?
Sylvan offers in-person and virtual tutoring designed around a child’s strengths and needs and aligned with state standards. Sylvan tutors take a three-step approach to working with students: first creating a learning plan, then adapting the plan to the child’s skill level and pace, and finally applying that learning plan to directly impact their success in school.
What are the qualifications of Sylvan Learning’s teachers?
Sylvan Learning has certified teachers who know how to challenge and inspire children. Teachers are versed in their curriculum, and Sylvan’s curriculum aligns with state and provincial standards.
What discounts are offered through Bright Horizons?
You receive 15% off most Sylvan services.
Who can I contact if I need help?
You can contact your preferred Sylvan location with questions. To do so, start by filling out the form and selecting the location of your choice, or the virtual option, from the drop-down menu.
Enrichment and STEM
What types of services are available?
Your Bright Horizons benefit gives you discounted access to a range of hands-on, fun, and educational learning programs for your child, offering a variety of online and in-person options for ages 3–14.
How do I access enrichment and STEM providers?
In the My Bright Horizons search bar, search for each partner below by name. Locate the tile for the partner you’re searching for and click to navigate to the partner portal for use.
MarcoPolo Learning
What services does MarcoPolo Learning offer?
MarcoPolo World School is a learning app featuring award-winning STEAM and literacy content designed by early education specialists. The app includes more than 500 premium video lessons and 3,000 interactive learning activities.
What discounts are offered through my benefit?
You receive discounts of $30 (or 37%) off the MarcoPolo Learning annual subscription.
How do I contact MarcoPolo for support?
You can email MarcoPolo at support@marcopololearning.com.
Little Passports
What services does Little Passports offer?
Little Passports is a service that provides globally inspired, hands-on art and science activities and stories. Kids will build and foster independence and curiosity through hands-on adventures that encourage exploration and question-asking.
What discounts are offered through my benefit?
You receive a 25% discount off your first payment for any subscription type.
How do I contact Little Passports for support?
You can contact Little Passports via email or live chat.
codeSpark
What services does codeSpark offer?
codeSpark is a learn-to-code app that teaches children the basics of computer programming. Sometimes, screen time is necessary – instead of eliminating it altogether, make it full of engaging skill-building opportunities.
What discounts are offered through my benefit?
You receive a 20% discount on an annual subscription.
How do I contact codeSpark for support?
You can contact codeSpark at support@codespark.com.
Birth & Infant Parent Resources
What types of services are available?
Your EFS benefits help expecting families and infant parents thrive in their career with a curated bundle of valuable pre-planning, childbirth, and post-birth supports.
How do I access Birth & Infant Parenting resources?
In the My Bright Horizons search bar, search for each partner below by name. Locate the tile for the partner you’re searching for and click to navigate to the partner portal for use.
Parental Leave Toolkit
What services does Parental Leave Toolkit offer?
Parental Leave Toolkit is a collection of resources designed to support expecting parents as they plan for and take their parental leave after the birth of a child, including personalized plans, checklists, and coaching tools. These are presented via a timeline where a user is recommended certain tasks and associated resources based on how close they are to the birth of their child / return to work.
What discounts are offered through my benefit?
You have free access to the full toolkit.
How do I contact the Parental Leave Toolkit team for support?
You may request support through My Bright Horizons or your employer-specific landing page.
NAPS
What services does NAPS offer?
NAPS provides families with resources to navigate through the stages of pregnancy and early parenting through personalized support by trained medical professionals. Their services include live and on-demand courses and webinars, parenting support groups, “Ask a Nurse,” expert-led consultations (breastfeeding, sleep).
What discounts are offered through my benefit?
You receive a 20% discount on all NAPS services.
How do I contact NAPS for support?
You can contact NAPS at hello@nurturebynaps.com or (857) 496-5095.
BabySparks
What services does BabySparks offer?
BabySparks is an app offering thousands of activities for parents to do with their children ages 0–3 and includes resources to track childhood milestones.
What discounts are offered through my benefit?
You receive a 60% discount on an annual premium subscription.
How do I contact BabySparks for support?
You can contact BabySparks via email.
Elder Care
What services do I have access to through Years Ahead?
Years Ahead connects you with elder care tools and resources — including search tools and referrals. Your Bright Horizons benefits include free access to this online elder care platform.
What will Years Ahead help me with?
Through Years Ahead, you can: take a needs assessment online for your loved one, learn about elder care options, access elder care resources, get guidance in finding senior care providers near you or your loved one.
What resources are available to me through Years Ahead?
Through Years Ahead, you can search a nationwide network of senior care providers that includes: in-home agencies, independent living facilities, assisted living facilities, memory care, nursing homes. You can browse providers’ profiles, which may include: program information, photos, experience and capabilities, pricing, and reviews. The site also offers: articles, cost calculators, other tools to help you make informed decisions about care for your loved one.
Who can I contact if I need help?
Customer support is available by email at support@yearsahead.com or by phone at (877) 719-3056. Support hours are 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. CT.
The Years Ahead customer support team can help with a range of requests, including but not limited to: registration questions, help using the site, information on available resources, how to pay for senior care, and understanding the different kinds of senior care available.
What is the typical cost of care on Years Ahead?
There is no cost to use the Years Ahead website. The cost of care through the Years Ahead agencies and facilities will vary based on the level of care and, in the case of in-home providers, the number of hours per week. Agencies and facilities listed on Years Ahead will provide cost information directly to you in response to your inquiry.
What is Bright Horizons Back-Up Care?
Examples of when you can use back-up child care include:
- Your child’s school or child center is closed, either unexpectedly (e.g., snow day) or planned
- (e.g., school holiday).
- You have a change in your work schedule and need in-home child care for evening and
- weekend hours.
- You are in between child care arrangements.
- Your regular caregiver is unavailable.
- Your child is mildly ill and cannot attend their regular school or child care center.
Examples of when you can use back-up adult and elder care include:
- Your parent’s or grandparent’s regular in-home care provider is unavailable.
- Your parents live with your sibling…and your sibling has a temporary conflict and is unable to care for them.
- Your in-law(s) are in the hospital and you would like someone to be with them for support.
- Your spouse, domestic partner, or other adult family member is recovering from an injury or surgery and needs assistance.
- You are recuperating from an injury or surgery and need assistance for yourself.
Where is back-up care available?
The benefit gives you access to a nationwide network of high-quality, licensed child care centers, including hundreds of accredited Bright Horizons child care centers across the United States. In addition, we have partnerships with 450 in-home care agencies that employ a total of nearly 200,000 experienced caregivers who travel up to 35 miles to provide care in your home or the home of your relative. Care options depend on the availability of these network providers in your area. While care is not guaranteed, Bright Horizons will make every effort to accommodate your request.
I do not see a local provider on the Bright Horizons Back-Up Care website. What should I do?
Bright Horizons will help to determine if there are contracted providers in your local area. The contact center, which is reachable at (877) 276-7115, has the most up-to-date information on our contracted network, and they will try to help you find options that will suit your care requirements.
Who is considered an adult or elder relative?
Any adult or elder relative for whom you have care responsibilities is covered. This could be a parent, grandparent, spouse or domestic partner, in-law, adult child, etc.
What is the age limit for care recipients?
For center care, age limits will vary by location. Most centers can serve children from 6 weeks to 6 years of age; some serve children through age 12. For in-home care, there is no age limit.
How can I provide feedback regarding my care experience?
Your feedback is a critical part in helping us manage the quality and experience people have when using this program. We will email you a link to a survey following the last date of care each time you schedule care with us. Please take a few minutes to complete this survey and let us know how we’re doing. In addition, feedback can be provided through the Back-Up Care site on each reservation for care, in the feedback link within your completed reservation list.
In-Home Back-Up Child, Adult, and Elder Care
When can I use in-home care for my child?
In-home child care can be used when you prefer to have care take place in your home, rather than in a child care center. One in-home caregiver can care for up to three children.
When can I use in-home care for my adult and elder family members?
In-home adult and elder care is available to cover a wide variety of care needs. In-home care is provided to your adult or elder family member in the comfort of his or her own home (or assisted living facility) and is available anywhere in the U.S. within established proximity of our in-home care agency partners. Any adult or elder for whom you have care-giving responsibilities is covered. Some reasons you may choose to use in-home care for adult and elder family members include:
- Respite care – which is perfect if your adult or elder family member’s normal caregiver is not available, or if that primary caregiver needs a day outside the house.
- Recovery care – which is a great option if your adult or elder family member has had minor surgery and needs a caregiver for the first few days of recovery at home.
How can I be assured the in-home caregivers provide a safe environment?
In-home care is designed to provide comforting, individualized care for your child, adult, or elder relative in the familiar surroundings of home. When your family member is in need of temporary care or assistance, our qualified caregivers provide in-home support so you can get to work free of worry.
In-home caregivers are all employed by Bright Horizons or the agencies Bright Horizons has contracted with and they are professionally trained, screened, and credentialed. Experienced in child or geriatric care, caregivers are carefully selected and meet stringent credentialing requirements, pass extensive background checks and screening processes, and are trained in CPR/First Aid.
Can I set up a “meet and greet” with an in-home caregiver prior to needing care?
You may request to set up a “meet and greet” with the caregiver in advance; however, we cannot guarantee that the specific caregiver you meet will be available on a day when you actually need back-up care. When a “meet and greet” is scheduled, your employer’s specific policies would apply for the caregiver to come to your house. All applicable care minimums apply. Please note: it is also a requirement for caregivers to contact you prior to care to introduce themselves, discuss your child or adult or elder relative’s care needs, and more.
Who is authorized to greet and release the in-home caregiver?
When the scheduled care is for a child, an adult (at least 18 years of age) must be present both when the caregiver arrives and departs. The adult must be someone who is willing to take responsibility for the care recipient(s) should the caregiver fail to arrive or otherwise be unable to provide care at the last minute. This can include, but is not limited to, a parent or guardian, a grandparent, an adult sibling, or a friend of the family. The adult, or adults, must be identified at the time care is requested.
The parent or guardian must take responsibility for greeting and/or releasing the caregiver in the event that the adult designated is unable to perform that function. Adult care recipients generally do not require a designated greet and release individual.
Can the in-home caregiver do light housekeeping?
An in-home caregiver can perform light housekeeping as it relates to the care of the care recipient only. Light housekeeping normally includes: cleaning kitchen after meal/snack preparation, straightening up family/living room and child’s room (if the child has played in the room during the day), etc. Light housekeeping does not include the following: vacuuming, laundry, dusting, cleaning of restrooms/bathing areas, etc. The only time a caregiver may provide any of the above services is when the care recipient has created a mess requiring the above services.
Can the in-home caregiver prepare meals?
An in-home caregiver can prepare meals as it relates to the care of the care recipient only. Meal preparation normally includes: cooking meals and preparing snacks for the care recipient to be eaten during the hours of care. Meal preparation does not include preparing meals for upcoming days/weeks or preparing meals for other family members not using the benefit.
Can the in-home provider administer medication?
In-home caregivers may not dispense prescription or over-the-counter medication directly to any care recipient in their care. Caregivers may apply non-prescription topical ointments to a care recipient in their care. Caregivers are only allowed to remind the adult/elder care recipient to take his or her pre-measured medication at an assigned time where authorized by the employee. You may make other arrangements for third parties to dispense medications (such as a neighbor), provided the caregiver is notified in advance.
In-home care professionals that can dispense medication vary by state regulations, but generally are Registered Nurses (RNs) or Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). Medical care must be requested at the time the reservation is placed and an additional fee of $50 per hour (1 hour minimum) will apply if dispensing of medication and/or certain medical procedures (including wound care) are required for the care provided.
Can the in-home caregiver provide transportation?
Caregivers may not transport any care recipient in a private vehicle. Caregivers are only allowed to accompany a care recipient using public transportation (i.e. taxi, bus, train, or special transit) when required in connection with the care provided and only with the prior authorization of the employee and notification of Bright Horizons. In the case of adult or elder care, caregivers are allowed to accompany a care recipient when driven in a private vehicle by the care recipient or an acceptable family member or acquaintance of the care recipient.
Can the in-home caregiver engage in outdoor activities with my family member?
Caregivers are required to provide care for care recipients in the homes of employees, the adult or elder relative, or other authorized locations. Caregivers may leave the premises only with your prior authorization. Outdoor activities are limited by the transportation policy.
Caregivers may not accompany care recipients to any body of water (public or backyard pools, lakes, etc.), other than in connection with a pre-arranged activity that a third party is responsible for (such as a swimming lesson with an instructor), and only with your prior authorization.
Are visitors allowed to come to my home while I am using in-home care?
No visitors are permitted on the premises without your prior authorization. No authorized visitors may be under 18 years of age (unless they reside in the home). Authorized individuals must provide photo identification in order to be given access to the care recipient.
If I like a specific in-home caregiver, can I request him or her in the future?
Yes. Bright Horizons will work to secure care with your preferred in-home caregiver. However, the caregiver may not always be available if he or she is confirmed for another family’s back-up care request.
If I am traveling for work and need to bring my child, is care available in my hotel room?
Yes. Care that takes place at a hotel is provided by our in-home agency network. With approval from you, the caregiver and the care recipient(s) are allowed to leave the room during care. Additionally, the caregiver and the care recipient(s) are allowed to leave the grounds of the hotel during care with written consent from you, which must be provided to Bright Horizons prior to care taking place.
Center-Based Back-Up Child Care
How can I be assured a center is a safe environment for my child?
All the child care centers that provide back-up care meet stringent quality requirements and are licensed by the state in which they operate. Each center offers a developmentally appropriate curriculum led by qualified teachers, follows strict health and safety policies, and ensures appropriate teacher-to-child ratios for each age group.
These centers are specifically designed to provide a warm, inviting, and engaging environment where children actively explore and participate. Teachers in back-up care settings are specially trained to tune into your child’s needs and interests, to help you comfortably transition at drop-off time, and to help your child feel welcome, secure, and at ease in what is usually an unfamiliar and new environment.
Can center staff administer medication?
Each child care center in the back-up care network has its own policies regarding medications based on local and state regulations. Please check with the center you will be using, should the need for medication administration exist or arise at any point during the provision of care.
What information will I need to bring to a child care center?
Once you schedule care, you will need to complete some information and forms to submit to the center. The specific materials required vary based on state and local requirements, but may include birth certificate, immunization records, and primary care physician contact information. The information is required by state licensing for the safety and care of your child and must be completed and given to the center in order to receive back-up care. Our care consultants can provide more details on specific requirements.
Back-Up Care Payments and Reimbursements
How do I pay for the service?
Any applicable copayments are collected by Bright Horizons. Visit https://clients.brighthorizons.com/t-mobile and select “Request Care” on the Reserve Back-Up Care tile prior to making a care reservation to learn more about your employer’s specific copay policy and collection method.
Can I find my own provider to use for back-up care?
You are required to utilize centers and in-home providers that are contracted with Bright Horizons Back-Up Care.
Can I use a flexible spending account (FSA) to pay the copay associated with care?
If there are copays, they must be paid with a standard payment method. Often, copays may be reimbursable through your FSA program (subject to the terms of your employer’s FSA provider). In order to get reimbursed, you must submit the proper paperwork to your FSA vendor.
If my child becomes sick and has to leave the care facility, will I receive a refund for that day of care?
As with any child care program, if your child becomes sick while at the child care facility, you will need to remove your child to prevent the illness from spreading to other children. There will be no monetary refund or credit to your back-up care allotment.
Back-Up Care Eligibility and Registration
How do I register?
You and your family member(s) must be registered for Bright Horizons Back-Up Care before you may make a reservation and use the back-up care services. We strongly recommend that you register in advance so that you are ready to use the benefit when you need care. Registration is at no cost. Register through the Bright Horizons Back-Up Care mobile app (available from the App Store or Google Play), or by calling the toll-free number at (877) 276-7115. Care consultants are available 24 hours per day, 7 days a week.
How do I create a “Care Profile” and what information do I need?
On the home page, click on the blue “Create Your Care Profile” button and follow these steps:
- Fill Out Your Employee Profile: Provide your relevant contact and employment information.
- Add Care Recipients : Enter your relationship, care location(s), and health information, and download/complete any required care forms.
- Enable Authorized Contacts: Add any adults (e.g., spouse/partner, grandparent, friend) as emergency contacts and/or individuals who are authorized to pick up care recipients.
- Enter Care Locations: Let us know where you will typically need care.
Can I access back-up care from my phone?
Yes — you have back-up care at your fingertips with the Bright Horizons Back-Up Care mobile app. You can download it by searching “back-up care” in the App Store or Google Play. And once you’ve downloaded the app, be sure to register for your back-up care benefit so you can submit reservation requests anytime, anywhere — even when you’re on the go.
What can I do with the Back-Up Care mobile app?
Once you’ve downloaded the Back-Up Care mobile app, you’ll have the ability to:
- Register for back-up care
- Submit new or duplicate previous back-up care requests
- Request a child care provider you used previously
- Find nearby child care centers and view each location on a map
- Add confirmed reservations to your device’s calendar
- Stay updated with real-time notifications and confirmations
- Easily manage your payment methods
Does the family member who needs care have to be covered under my insurance to receive care?
No. Any care recipient who relies on you as a primary caregiver, or a direct adult relative (i.e. parent, in-law, grandparent) qualifies to receive care through Bright Horizons Back-Up Care when normal care arrangements break down. Those eligible care recipients are not required to be covered under your insurance.
Is my adult family member who needs care required to live with me to be eligible for the services?
No, the adult family member does not have to live with you. Back-up care is available nationwide, so even if the family member lives in a different community or state, you can still take advantage of the benefit.
Can spouses or domestic partners register?
Upon registration, Bright Horizons will verify your eligibility by requesting specific information related to your employment. For that reason, you are required to initiate the registration process online or over the phone. Once a username and password has been created for your online account, you can add your spouse or partner as an authorized user so that they can access the account.
What information is needed to register my family member?
Information such as the care recipient’s name, birth date, any known allergies, and emergency contact will be required. You can find full details of what’s needed online by visiting the back-up care website.
Do I have to register every year?
No. You only have to register once and can do this anytime. However, depending on the care needed, you may need to provide additional information for the unique center or in-home provider you use.
Back-Up Care Reservations
Is registering the same as making a reservation?
No. You and your family member(s) must be registered for Bright Horizons Back-Up Care before you may make a reservation and use the back-up care services. Register online with a few simple steps, use the Bright Horizons Back-Up Care mobile app, or contact us by phone and a knowledgeable care consultant will help you complete registration. Registration is free, so we strongly recommend that you register in advance so you are ready to use the benefit when you need care.
Do I have to make a reservation?
Yes. Reservations allow our care consultants to secure the type of care you need, on the specific day(s) that you need care, and also alert the care provider to the specific needs of your family so he or she is prepared. You can make reservations for back-up care in advance of the date care if needed. See the back-up care website for details. Reserve care either online via the Bright Horizons benefit website, through the back-up care mobile app, or by calling our contact center.
If I do not use all of my back-up care allotment during the year, does it rollover?
Your annual allowance of back-up care must be used during your allocated use year. Any unused days are forfeited.
If I work non-traditional hours, such as evenings and weekends, can I still use the benefit?
Evening and weekend care (typically in-home) is available and your company’s standard benefit details will apply. However, you must be working during the time care is needed.
Will my employer know that I am using the benefit?
Yes, Bright Horizons will provide monthly utilization reports to your employer to show who has registered for and used the benefit.
What is the cancellation policy?
You must cancel by 5:00 p.m. local time at least two (2) business days before the date of care. For example, care requested for a Friday must be canceled by 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday. If care is canceled after 5:00 p.m. local time two (2) business days before the date of care, you will be charged the use against your annual limit and any applicable copayment will be collected per your employer’s benefit parameters.