Ducklings Early Learning Center Scales Daycare Franchise with Proven Systems
From Local Crisis to Established Childcare Brand
Ducklings Early Learning Center began in 1994 when a rural Pennsylvania community lost its primary preschool program. With 40 families suddenly without childcare, Jody Thompson stepped in to create a solution. She financed the launch by tapping into her family’s retirement savings, turning a community challenge into a long-term business opportunity.
Family Leadership Driving Consistency
The company continues to be led by Thompson’s daughters, who oversee core areas of the business. Kim Collier leads franchise growth, Sarah Vannello directs curriculum development and Hilary Fogel manages inventory operations. Their combined efforts ensure alignment between education standards and operational execution.
Franchise System Growth Since 2019
Ducklings entered franchising in 2019 with four locations. Today, it operates 20 centers, including 17 franchised units, across Pennsylvania and Delaware. Each location typically enrolls 125 to 150 children between the ages of six weeks and six years.
Hands-On Learning Through “Here We Grow”
The brand’s “Here We Grow” curriculum focuses on experiential learning. Children are encouraged to learn through action—engaging in creative, social and sensory-based activities rather than relying on technology.
Classroom practices reflect this approach, with activities such as tracing letters in trays of vanilla pudding. These methods combine skill development with interaction and engagement, reinforcing both learning and social connection.
Building Skills Through Social Interaction
Children are placed in environments where collaboration is central. Learning alongside peers helps develop communication and teamwork while reinforcing academic concepts through shared experiences.
Strong Performance Backed by Experience
Ducklings reports an average unit volume of approximately $1.9 million. This performance is supported by a 10-person team with more than 200 years of combined experience, providing franchisees with reliable operational guidance.
Ongoing Support and Technology Integration
Franchisees receive structured support, including monthly coaching during their first year and quarterly check-ins thereafter. Additional resources include HR services and internal systems designed to improve efficiency.
The brand’s proprietary platform, “the pond,” serves as a central hub for operations, offering training tools, curriculum access and performance reporting in one place.
Strategic Expansion in Underserved Areas
The company is expanding across Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, with a focus on underserved markets and college communities. These locations offer strong demand due to stable populations and ongoing need for childcare services.
Path to 30 Units and Multi-Unit Growth
Ducklings plans to open two additional centers this year and reach 30 locations by 2028. Much of this growth is expected to come from existing franchisees expanding into multiple units, leveraging a stable business model and consistent revenue potential.
Learn more about : Ducklings Early Learning Center
