ChildPlus Alternative: Why Agencies Are Replacing ChildPlus with GoEngage

GoEngage: The #1 alternative to ChildPlus

For decades, ChildPlus served as the cornerstone of data management for Head Start programs across the country. But over the past few years, agencies have grown increasingly frustrated — with the constant price increases, various platforms, lack of flexibility, support, and innovation.

Founded in 1997, Cleverex Systems, the creator of GoEngage (as well as HSFIS, PROMIS, myHeadStart, and others), has long supported Head Start agencies with data management solutions. And in recent years, we’ve reimagined what data management and family engagement can look like — building an all-in-one platform that’s rapidly becoming the new standard for forward-thinking Head Start agencies.

Why Haven't I Heard of GoEngage?

Here’s why more and more programs are making the switch.

1. Built for Head Start — and Built for Today

GoEngage was purpose-built for the Office of Head Start requirements. Everything from enrollment to attendance and attendance plans to parent communication and family partnership agreements to PIR and more is supported naturally— with none of the clunky workarounds required in other systems.

Your team gets tools that fit your workflows. No more forcing your process into a platform that wasn’t designed for you.

2. One Platform.

With GoEngage, everything you need for PIR purposes and Head Start Performance Standards without additional subscriptions. You can:

• Communicate with families in an unlimited number of languages

• Send invites, reminders, surveys, and forms

• Track family engagement and child attendance in real time

• Capture in-kind information digitally without the stacks and stacks of forms

• Receive alerts as new documents are uploaded from families, or when things need attention

• View dashboards at every level — site, classroom, and child

All in one intuitive platform — accessible from any device.

3. Modern Communication for Modern Families with our Parent Portal

GoEngage meets families where they are: on their phones, on the go, and in their preferred language.

• Mobile-first design for both staff and parents

• Text and email notifications in an unlimited number of languages

• One-click RSVPs, reminders, and follow-ups

You’ll see engagement rates rise — because it’s never been easier for families to stay informed and involved.

4. Affordable Pricing That Makes Sense for Head Start

One of the most common frustrations with ChildPlus has been pricing based on your total grant amount — even if you’re only at a fraction of your enrollment capacity.

GoEngage pricing is based on the number of children you serve, not your budget size — ensuring fairness, clarity, and affordability for every agency.

In fact, agencies find GoEngage to be the more cost-effective solution, even while getting more powerful tools and personalized, hands-on support.

5. A Family-Owned Company That Treats You Like One of Our Own

GoEngage is proud to be family-owned since 1997, just like ChildPlus was in its early days. With 28 years and 2 generations of Head Start experience, we believe every agency deserves more than just being a number — they deserve a partner.

That means:

• Fast, personal support from people who know your program

• Real conversations, not ticket queues

• A true commitment to your mission — not just your contract

When you join GoEngage, you’re not just a user. You’re part of the family.

6. Switching Is Easier Than You Think

Worried about the transition? We’ve helped dozens of agencies switch from legacy systems with:

• Easy data migration options

• White-glove onboarding

• Live training and role-based support

• Dedicated success managers and ongoing check-ins

We’re with you every step of the way — from kickoff to go-live and beyond.

Switching to GoEngage is Easier Than You Think: Insights from an Industry Veteran

Switching to GoEngage in Winter or Spring: 6 Easy Phases

The Bottom Line

If your current system feels like more of a financial burden than a benefit, it’s time to see what’s possible with GoEngage. We’re not just another vendor. We’re the platform, the team, and the partner your program deserves.

• Built for Head Start

• Priced fairly and affordably

• Backed by real people who care

• Ready to help you

“GoEngage changed the way we work, communicate with families, and monitor data. Our team is more connected — and so are our families.” – ERSEA Manager

👉 Schedule a demo today and see how GoEngage can transform your program.