Bright Horizons Chief Executive David Lissy said many institutional investors who had owned shares before the buyout appeared eager to own the stock again.

WSJ: Bright Horizons IPO Surges

"We're emerging with a more rational capital structure, " Mr. Lissy said.

WSJ: Bright Horizons IPO Surges

Part of the attraction for investors is a long-term demographic shift toward more families with two working parents, as well as a greater number of working mothers with young children, Mr. Lissy said.

WSJ: Bright Horizons IPO Surges