WEST CHESTER, PA — Ducklings Early Learning Center is accelerating plans to expand across the Mid-Atlantic as demand for quality childcare surges and the industry approaches an estimated $68 billion in revenue this year.
The West Chester-based preschool brand, founded in 1994, now operates 20 locations — 17 franchised centers and three corporate-owned sites — and is positioning itself for broader regional growth. Company leaders say consistent enrollment waitlists and ongoing residential development across Southeastern Pennsylvania and Delaware signal sustained demand for reliable, curriculum-driven early education.
Founded by Jody Thompson, a former pre-K teacher who identified a need for daycare programs that balance nurturing care with structured learning, Ducklings initially grew through corporate-owned centers before launching its franchise model. The first franchise opened in 2019, purchased by a longtime employee, and the company has since added two to three new centers annually.
Ducklings’ proprietary Here We Grow!™ curriculum emphasizes discovery-based learning supported by trained, degreed teachers. Classrooms feature indoor play areas and secure outdoor playgrounds designed to foster academic, social and emotional development.
“With extensive research validating the critical impact of early education on a child’s life-long learning and development, and the prevalence of dual-income households, we are confident in the significant opportunity that Ducklings Early Learning Center offers,” said Kim Collier, the company’s chief development officer and one of Thompson’s daughters involved in the business. She described the ideal franchise candidate as someone who has “a head for business and a heart for education.”
Thompson said the company has focused on maintaining consistent standards as it grows. “Throughout our steady expansion, we have ensured that each center provides a nurturing environment for children to learn and grow under the guidance of skilled, caring teachers,” she said.
Target expansion markets include Pennsylvania regions west of Philadelphia, as well as New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland. Company officials say the brand’s modernized systems, franchise support infrastructure and established regional reputation position it to capture additional market share in an increasingly competitive childcare landscape.
Prospective franchisees can find more information at https://ducklingsfranchise.com/.
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