Children's Lighthouse

Children’s Lighthouse on Franchising Success: Proven Systems & Support

1851 Franchise

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In this interview with 1851 Franchise, Kelton shares how franchising offers proven systems, support and community to help franchisees succeed while maintaining their independence.

Matt Kelton of Children’s Lighthouse on Franchising Success: Proven Systems and Support

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Children’s Lighthouse Q1 Momentum: Groundbreakings & Franchisee Conference

Scaling to Multiple Schools

How Children’s Lighthouse Helps Franchisees Fill Their Schools

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Why a Values-Based Curriculum Gives Children’s Lighthouse Franchise Owners a Competitive Edge

How AI Is Reshaping the Job Market and Why It Can’t Replace Early Childhood Education

Children’s Lighthouse Earns Spot on Entrepreneur’s 2026 Franchise 500

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Filling a school is one of the most critical, and often most challenging, parts of operating an early education center. At&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthousefranchise.com/">Children’s Lighthouse</a>, it’s also one of the most strategically supported.Rather than relying on fragmented marketing efforts or passive enrollment tactics, the brand has developed a comprehensive, data-driven approach to help franchisees consistently attract, engage, and convert families. The result is a system that not only drives leads but turns them into long-term enrollments.<h2>A Focus on High-Intent Lead Generation</h2>At the top of the funnel,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/info">Children’s Lighthouse</a> prioritizes quality over quantity.&nbsp;“We are really focused on high-intent lead generation, not just volume,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/berrycolin/">Colin Berry</a>, Vice President of Brand Development. “Our messaging is really what sets us apart. Our marketing is focused on our proprietary curriculum and our character values. We also have extended hours, great locations and convenience — those tend to be the parents’ main focus. We aren’t just chasing clicks, we are attracting families looking for a better option.”For franchisees, that means fewer wasted leads and more meaningful conversations with families who are already aligned with the brand’s value proposition. In addition to national brand strategies, Children’s Lighthouse empowers franchisees with targeted local marketing tools.“The marketing team is very surgical in the process and has helped us with geo-fencing,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-travis-97b81221/">Randy Travis</a>, a franchisee in Cypress, Texas. “For example, if we have spaces in the toddler range to fill, they are able to focus very specifically on that segment of parents for us.”At the same time, the brand recognizes that digital strategies must be complemented by real-world presence.“Franchisees are also encouraged to do local, grassroots marketing,” Berry said. “In childcare, word of mouth is still a big part of marketing. We make sure we are at every event we can be at — sponsoring local teams, part of PTA organizations — we want to be where parents are.”<h2>Speed-to-Lead: Winning the First Interaction</h2>Once a parent expresses interest, speed becomes the focus.&nbsp;“The most important thing for us is speed-to-lead and having the structure to follow up,” Berry said. “As soon as someone calls the school or fills out an enrollment form, they are getting an immediate response.”Through CRM-driven automation, parents receive texts, emails, and follow-ups within seconds. “There is a multi-touch cadence,” Berry said. “The first schools to respond usually win, so we make sure we are that school.”This system removes friction from the process and ensures no opportunity slips through the cracks.<h2>Turning Tours Into Conversions</h2>While digital marketing drives awareness, Children’s Lighthouse knows that enrollment decisions are often made in person. That’s why the brand places significant emphasis on creating highly personalized tour experiences.“Tours aren’t just walkthroughs; they are a tailored experience for each parent,” Berry said. “We have a&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/values-based-curriculum-childrens-lighthouse-franchise-competitive-edge-2731093">differentiated curriculum through our Lighthouse Pathways</a>, and we bring that to life during the tour.”Franchisees are trained to understand what matters most to each family and adjust their approach accordingly, from safety concerns to classroom structure to developmental outcomes.“Our tours are very focused and family-centric,” Travis said. “Our goal is to determine what is most important to the specific parent. We always let them know that we will discuss everything and anything, but we want to focus on what matters most to them individually.”That personalization creates a stronger emotional connection and, ultimately, higher conversion rates.<h2>Data-Driven Follow-Up That Closes the Loop</h2>The experience doesn’t end when the tour does. Children’s Lighthouse leverages technology to keep families engaged throughout the decision-making process. Systems like&nbsp;<a href="https://www.intellikidsystems.com/">IntelliKid</a> track each family's progress on the journey and automate personalized follow-up communication.“We can utilize that software to send out specific reminders and messages from that stage in the process,” Travis said. “We also like to follow up in person — we’ll have somebody contact a family within 24 hours and check back in.”Berry notes that this level of personalization extends into post-tour communication. “They get personalized messages by email and text after the tour,” he said. “What was the family really interested in? Whatever that focus is, they are going to start getting messages based on that experience.”<h2>A Proven Three-Step System for Enrollment Growth</h2>For Travis, success ultimately comes down to a simple but powerful framework: “We’ve realized there are really three legs to this stool at the end of the day,” he said. “You need to be found first through an internet search. Second, you need to get the parents in for an actual tour. Third, we want to generate such a great experience that they are comfortable telling family and friends about their experience.”That system —&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/the-top-5-reasons-to-buy-a-childrens-lighthouse-franchise-in-2024-2726323">backed by corporate support, technology, and training</a> — has delivered real results.“We’ve had a great spring and have added 45 to 50 students since mid-December,” Travis said. “We’ve done an excellent job of getting people to the door.”At its core, Children’s Lighthouse’s enrollment strategy is about attracting the right families and delivering an experience that aligns with the brand’s mission. From high-intent lead generation and lightning-fast follow-up to personalized tours and community engagement, the brand has created a repeatable system that franchisees can rely on.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse">https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse</a>.

From high-intent digital strategies to personalized tours and community-driven marketing, the brand has built a system designed to convert interest into enrollment.

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FORT WORTH, Texas —&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthousefranchise.com/">Children’s Lighthouse</a>, the nationally recognized early learning school franchise, is building on strong momentum in 2026 following a record-setting 2025.Building on a year that included 15 franchise signings, new market entries, and multiple school openings, the brand has already made meaningful progress toward its 2026 growth goals. Most notably,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/info">Children’s Lighthouse</a> celebrated a groundbreaking for its&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/childrens-lighthouse-franchise-expansion-2025-2026-pipeline-2731091">first Tennessee location</a>.“We’ve been really intentional with where we want to expand,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-kelton/">Matt Kelton</a>, Vice President of Franchise Development. “What you’re seeing now is the result of that strategy taking hold, entering the right markets with the right partners, and building a foundation for long-term success.”Children’s Lighthouse is growing in a category that continues to see strong demand. Early childhood education remains essential for many families, especially with more than two-thirds of U.S. children under 6 living in households where both parents work.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2024/03/06/2841618/0/en/U-S-Child-Care-Market-Size-to-Surpass-USD-88-22-Billion-by-2033.html">The U.S. childcare market size was valued at $59 billion in 2023 and is expected to surpass around $88 billion by 2033</a>, growing at a CAGR of 4.3% between 2024 and 2033.&nbsp;Children’s Lighthouse serves this demand with its comprehensive&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_kNlcmfSRQc">Lighthouse Pathways® approach to learning</a>. This proprietary program focuses on three individualized, research-based, and age-appropriate learning tracks designed to meet each child where they are.&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/bright">Lighthouse BRIGHT®</a> caters to children as young as six weeks old through two years old.&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/cares">Lighthouse CARES®</a> focuses on children from two to five years, while&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/xstream-quest">xSTREAM Quest®</a> caters to school-aged children. In the xSTREAM Quest program, students take part in projects built around science, technology, reading, engineering, art, and math (STREAM). Through classroom instruction and hands-on activities, Children’s Lighthouse helps children build the skills and confidence they need in school and beyond. Maintaining high standards of operational and educational excellence, each Children's Lighthouse school is independently owned and operated and may have its own Cognia™ or other accreditation.“Parents everywhere are looking for high-quality, values-based early education, and Children’s Lighthouse continues to deliver on that promise,” Kelton said. “Our schools are full, our families are happy, and that demand is what fuels responsible growth.”In addition to the Tennessee groundbreaking, Children’s Lighthouse is actively working with franchisees to secure prime real estate and move projects through the development pipeline — a critical focus as competition for sites intensifies nationwide.A major catalyst for the brand’s Q1 momentum was its 2026 Franchise Conference, where franchisees and leadership aligned around a clear theme: Culture and Connection.“This conference was really about alignment,” Kelton said. “As a system, we’ve built strong demand. Now it’s about executing at a high level across every school, every day. Culture and connection are operational drivers. When those two things are strong, performance follows.”As part of its 2026 strategy, Children’s Lighthouse is continuing to invest in systems that support both franchisee performance and brand differentiation. This includes the rollout of AI-powered tools designed to improve responsiveness and lead conversion at the school level, as well as systemwide initiatives like pursuing Cognia accreditation.“We’re entering a phase where consistency across the system is what will separate us in the market,” Kelton said. “The systems are in place. Now it’s about how well we use them.”In addition, the brand is helping franchisees navigate development more strategically through build-to-suit options, SBA financing support and site selection programs, which are all aimed at securing high-quality locations in increasingly competitive markets.As Children’s Lighthouse grows, the brand is concentrating on metro areas where more families are moving in and demand for early education remains strong. Target markets for 2026 include Austin, Indianapolis, Nashville, Orlando, Raleigh, and Charlotte.“We are not trying to grow for the sake of growth,” Kelton said. “We are focused on quality over quantity and making sure we’re entering markets where our model truly resonates with families and franchisees.”With multiple schools in development, new markets opening and a clear strategic roadmap in place, Children’s Lighthouse is entering the remainder of 2026 with confidence. The brand was also recognized on the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 list earlier this year.“We’re laying the groundwork for long-term, sustainable growth,” Kelton said. “This year is about building on the momentum we’ve created and continuing to execute at a high level across the system.”To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse">https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse</a>.About Children’s LighthouseThe Children’s Lighthouse brand was established in Fort Worth, Texas in 1997. The Children’s Lighthouse Early Learning Schools® brand promises to create a safe, fun, and happy place that gives children confidence, a sense of comfort today, and a lifelong love of learning, friendship, and community. Children’s Lighthouse focuses on age-appropriate and values-based curriculums that focus on kindergarten readiness and creating lifelong learners. In 2025, Children's Lighthouse was ranked on the Entrepreneur 500 and as a Top Franchise for 2025 by Franchise Business Review. In 2024, Children's Lighthouse was featured on the Franchise Times Top 400.

The early education franchise continues its intentional expansion with new school development and a growing pipeline in high-demand markets.

Children’s Lighthouse Builds Momentum in Q1 2026 With School Groundbreakings and National Franchisee Conference

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<a href="https://childrenslighthousefranchise.com/">Children’s Lighthouse</a> is rolling out new AI-powered support tools to handle more of the day-to-day marketing, communication and reputation management work that can pull franchisees away from their schools. The goal is to give owners more time to focus on care, education and the family experience.“Over the course of the last month, we unveiled AI chat, which is on our website, AI review and response on Google, and also AI content listing management,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/berrycolin">Colin Berry</a>, Vice President of Brand Development for&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/info">Children’s Lighthouse</a>. “We’ve also had AI call tracking for a while. We are able to track every call, listen to every call and also filter in and out real leads.”Together, these tools form a connected system that supports franchisees across marketing, communication and reputation management.<h2>Giving Time Back to Operators</h2>At its core, the AI rollout is about one thing: efficiency. Children’s Lighthouse franchisees are operators first, responsible for running schools, leading teams and supporting families day in and day out.&nbsp;“All of these things are important,” Berry said. “Our franchisees shouldn’t be spending hours chasing reviews, writing copy, responding to these things, etc. They need to be focused on their schools. All of these AI tools are about giving our franchisees back more time.”That philosophy aligns with the entire Children’s Lighthouse model,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/comprehensive-support-at-every-step-what-to-expect-from-childrens-lighthouse-2727896">which emphasizes strong operational support and systems</a> that allow owners to focus on delivering a high-quality experience inside the four walls of their local schools.<h2>Always-On Communication for Modern Families</h2>One of the most immediate impacts of the new technology is in how the brand communicates with prospective families.&nbsp;“For the AI chat, families are searching for childcare, but we want to cut down on the lead time with communication,” Berry said. “Prior to AI, we had a chat feature, but almost 90% of chats were going unresponded to. Now with AI chat, we can have 100% of those chats being answered, even if the school is not open.”Parents researching childcare options often do so outside of standard business hours, and immediate access to information can influence their decision-making. “At 10 p.m. on a Saturday, someone can figure out how much it costs for their 3-year-old to attend one of our schools,” Berry said. “That’s a big advantage for both the family and the franchisee.”<h2>Strengthening Online Reputation at Scale</h2>In the childcare industry, trust is everything, and for many families, that trust starts with online reviews.&nbsp;“Google reviews are one of the first places parents look,” Berry said. “AI review and response allows us to not only write super thoughtful messages, but we can do that in seconds. Google wants to see quality and quantity of reviews, and also quick responses.”Quick responses are only part of the value. For a franchise system with schools in markets across the country, the tools also help Children’s Lighthouse keep its messaging consistent from one location to the next.“It’s also important from a branding perspective that we are consistent across locations on how we respond to certain reviews,” Berry said. “These tools allow us to do that at scale.”<h2>Smarter Listings and Less Manual Work</h2>The brand has also improved its listings management capabilities with AI so that critical information, from hours of operation to location details, remains accurate and up to date across all platforms.“We’ve always had listings management as an important tool in terms of making sure that info is consistent across locations,” Berry said. “But if there were things that needed to be changed, it required manual labor and someone actively logging in and making the changes.”With AI, that process becomes automated and scalable. “Now we can make sure things stay consistent and are able to generate content like Google photos and posts without more staffing,” he said.<h2>Using AI to Enhance (Not Replace) the Core Mission</h2>While AI is transforming many industries,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/how-ai-is-reshaping-the-job-market-and-why-it-cant-replace-early-childhood-education-2731972#featured">Children’s Lighthouse is clear about its role within the business.&nbsp;</a>“These tools are becoming more and more essential for every industry and brand out there,” Berry said. “Even a few short months ago, everyone thought AI was going to take everybody’s job, but as things have progressed and we’ve learned more about it, it’s really just creating more opportunity for everybody.”For Children’s Lighthouse, that opportunity is about focus. “It’s providing more tools so we can focus our attention on what is important,” Berry said. “And in our business, it’s about taking care of children. That is the most important.”<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/childrens-lighthouse-builds-momentum-in-q1-2026-with-school-groundbreakings-and-national-franchisee-conference-2731924">As demand for early childhood education continues to grow</a>, Children’s Lighthouse is positioning its franchisees with tools that not only improve efficiency but also enhance the overall customer experience. Combined with its proprietary curriculum, strong operational support and real estate-backed model, the addition of AI-powered systems reinforces the brand’s commitment to innovation without losing sight of its purpose.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse">https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse</a>.

Design with photo of Children's Lighthouse classroom, support chat bubbles

Through new tools like AI chat for websites and AI review/response for Google, Children's Lighthouse frees up franchisee time for high-quality care and education.

Children’s Lighthouse Launches AI-Powered Support Tools to Streamline Operations and Elevate the Family Experience

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<a href="https://childrenslighthousefranchise.com/">Children’s Lighthouse</a> will be in Orlando for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.franchiseshowinfo.com/orlando-visitor">The National Franchise Show</a> on April 25-26, 2026, where the brand plans to meet with prospective franchisees interested in early education at Booth #319.Held at the Orange County Convention Center, the event is Florida’s largest “Own Your Own Business” showcase, bringing together top franchise brands and aspiring entrepreneurs for two days of in-person networking, education, and discovery.<ul><li>Saturday, April 25: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.</li><li>Sunday, April 26: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.</li></ul>Access a free ticket to the show&nbsp;<a href="https://www.franchiseshowinfo.com/orlando-exhibitor/exhibitor-manual-live">here</a>.With a proven model, a differentiated curriculum, and a clear runway for growth across Florida,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/info">Children’s Lighthouse</a> is using the event to connect with candidates interested in building meaningful, scalable businesses in high-demand markets.<h2>A Proven Brand with Deep Roots in Orlando</h2>With an established foundation, Children's Lighthouse has a clear path forward in the Orlando market.“Children’s Lighthouse has an established presence in the Orlando area with a school in Winter Garden that has been serving families since 2005,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-kelton">Matt Kelton</a>, Vice President of Development. “With more than two decades of operation, the school has built a strong reputation in the community and has been recognized as a top preschool in the market, including being named ‘Best Preschool’ by Orlando City Magazine in 2024.”That long-standing success signals both brand credibility and unmet demand. “The Orlando market is well-positioned to support approximately six to eight Children’s Lighthouse schools over time,” Kelton said. “This reflects the size of the metro area, continued population growth and the availability of high-quality suburban trade areas that align with our model.”<h2>Why Orlando Is a High-Potential Growth Market</h2>With more people moving in, more jobs being created and more young families putting down roots, Orlando stands out as a strong fit for Children’s Lighthouse’s early education model.“Orlando is one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the United States, driven by strong population growth, job creation and continued migration from across the country and internationally,” Kelton said. “The region benefits from a diverse economy spanning healthcare, technology, tourism, and professional services, creating a large base of dual-income households.”That demographic shift is critical. “These families are seeking high-quality early education and care, making Orlando an ideal fit for the Children’s Lighthouse model,” he said.The brand is specifically targeting high-growth suburban corridors where family density and new housing development are expanding, including:<ul><li>Horizon West/Winter Garden/Windermere</li><li>Lake Nona</li><li>Clermont/Minneola</li><li>Kissimmee/St. Cloud</li><li>Oviedo/Winter Springs/Sanford corridor</li></ul>“In Orlando, we’re prioritizing locations within rapidly expanding suburban corridors and master-planned communities where young families are relocating,” Kelton said. “We focus on high-visibility, accessible sites near residential growth, major commuter routes and community anchors.”<h2>A Measured, Scalable Development Strategy</h2>Rather than over-saturating the Orlando market, Children’s Lighthouse is taking a disciplined, long-term approach to growth.“Children’s Lighthouse anticipates a measured and strategic rollout,” Kelton said.<ul><li>Year 1: 1 new location</li><li>Year 3: 2 to 3 locations</li><li>Year 5: 4 to 5 locations</li><li>Year 10: 6 to 8 locations</li></ul>“This approach ensures that each school is thoughtfully placed and positioned for long-term success,” he said. For franchisees, that translates into protected territories, strong site selection support and the ability to scale over time.<h2>Expanding Beyond Orlando: Tampa Bay and Southwest Florida</h2>Orlando remains a key market for Children’s Lighthouse, but the brand is also looking more broadly at opportunities across Florida.<ul><li>Tampa Bay: projected capacity of 4 to 6 schools</li><li>Southwest Florida (Naples, Fort Myers, Cape Coral): projected capacity of 4 to 6 schools</li></ul>“The brand recently signed a franchise agreement in Naples, further reinforcing its commitment to expanding in Southwest Florida,” Kelton said.Together, these markets represent a significant opportunity for both single-unit and multi-unit operators looking to establish a presence in one of the country’s fastest-growing states.<h2>Meeting Future Owners Face-to-Face</h2>At The National Franchise Show, Children’s Lighthouse will connect directly with prospective franchisees exploring business ownership, many for the first time.The event offers attendees the chance to meet brands face-to-face, explore full- and part-time opportunities, attend educational seminars on franchising, financing, and business ownership, and compare opportunities across industries.“With strong demand, clear market capacity, and a differentiated offering centered on character values and early childhood development, this is a unique moment for franchisees to enter the Children’s Lighthouse system in Florida,” Kelton said.<h2>A Purpose-Driven Opportunity in a High-Demand Industry</h2>Demand for trusted early education remains strong, especially in fast-growing suburban areas, and Children’s Lighthouse is looking to meet that need with a model built around both mission and business performance. For franchisees, that creates an opportunity to build something financially sound while also making a meaningful difference for families in their communities.Prospective owners attending the Orlando show will have the opportunity to meet the team, explore available territories and learn how they can play a role in expanding Children’s Lighthouse across Florida’s most dynamic markets.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse">https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse</a>.

With strong demand for early education and significant whitespace across Florida, Children’s Lighthouse is meeting prospective franchisees at one of the region’s largest business ownership events.

Children’s Lighthouse to Exhibit at The National Franchise Show in Orlando, Showcasing Growth Across Florida

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DWZgGEIE1D6/">UJ and Sohini Patel</a>, a husband-and-wife team in Knoxville, recently invested in a&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/">Children’s Lighthouse</a> franchise after seeing both a need in their community and an opportunity to build something their own children could one day be part of.“I am a pharmacist, and I didn’t have anything to do with childcare originally,” Sohini said. “But being in pharmacy, I’m always managing people, whether it’s employees or patients. I also grew up in the hotel business because my parents owned hotels, so being involved in operations and running a business was nothing new to me.”What ultimately convinced her to pursue early childhood education was something much more personal. “What really drove me to pull the trigger was the children aspect of it,” she said. “We both have children, and I wanted to do something better for the future generations coming up. That drive really led me to finding Children’s Lighthouse. Their mission really aligns with us as a family, and this is the path I wanted to go down.”<h2>Finding the Right Franchise Partner</h2>The Patels first learned about&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/info">Children’s Lighthouse</a> through a family member in Nashville who had been researching educational franchise opportunities.&nbsp;“We met with the Children’s Lighthouse schools and got to learn about the curriculum,” Sohini said. “That is really what drew me in. It was unbelievable and unmatched, unlike anything I had ever come across. It&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/values-based-curriculum-childrens-lighthouse-franchise-competitive-edge-2731093">emphasizes a values-based curriculum</a> and creates a nurturing environment that focuses on the emotional side, the intellectual side, and everything in between. It’s an all-encompassing curriculum, and you could see how engaged the students were. The entire curriculum tied together.”UJ agreed that while the economics of childcare can be attractive, the educational philosophy was what ultimately separated Children’s Lighthouse from other opportunities. “The financial aspect will be there for any childcare business,” he said. “But for us, the curriculum really aligned well. We felt like Children’s Lighthouse was doing something special.”The couple also found confidence in the level of support they received from the franchise team throughout the discovery process.&nbsp;“They provide a lot of support,” UJ said. “They are there when you need them, while other franchises might leave you out on your own. With Children’s Lighthouse, they are always just a phone call away. Everyone on the team was never hesitant to answer all of our questions. They understand what it takes to be a business owner,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/michael-brown-franchise-growth-2731841">but they also understand family life</a>.”Beyond the brand itself, the Patels saw a significant opportunity to serve families in their hometown. “In Knoxville, there is a grave need for childcare centers,” Sohini said. “We’ve known this for a long time because we’ve experienced it ourselves as parents. I wanted to make sure I picked the right franchise to bring into the community. Children’s Lighthouse has such a proven system in place, and they keep improving no matter what. They are always looking for ways to get better.”<h2>Building the First School, Then Looking Ahead</h2>The Patels are currently working toward opening their first Children’s Lighthouse location in Knoxville and are already laying the groundwork for future growth. “Hopefully we’ll be opening sometime next year,” UJ said. “Right now, we want to focus on this first school and build a well-seasoned team around it.”According to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-kelton">Matt Kelton</a>, Vice President of Franchise Development for Children’s Lighthouse, the Patels possess many of the qualities the brand looks for in successful franchisees.“Sohini and UJ are exactly the kind of people we’re thrilled to have in the Children’s Lighthouse family,” Kelton said. “They’ve got the business chops, for sure, but what really shines through is how much they truly care about kids and their community. It wasn’t just about the bottom line for them; they fell in love with our mission and curriculum first. We’ve seen that when you lead with that kind of heart and back it up with solid experience, great things happen. We have no doubt they’re going to build a fantastic school and eventually expand to even more locations.”<h2>Trusting Their Decision</h2>As they move closer to opening day, the Patels have simple advice for prospective franchisees considering Children’s Lighthouse: “If you’re thinking about it, trust your gut,” Sohini said. “What they show you is really honest, and it’s truly what they deliver. Children’s Lighthouse is a really amazing place. You can walk into their office and immediately feel the family environment.”That combination of&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/why-family-owned-childrens-lighthouse-franchise-advantage-2730967">family values, educational excellence, and growth potential</a> is exactly why the Patels chose Children’s Lighthouse and why they already see expansion in their future.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse">https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse</a>.

While neither Sohini nor UJ Patel came directly from the childcare industry, they were drawn to a mission that closely aligned with their values as parents and business owners.

Why This Knoxville Family Chose Children’s Lighthouse and Is Already Thinking About Expansion

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For prospective franchisees exploring the early education industry, one of the biggest questions is often: Will I be able to secure financing? According to lenders, the answer becomes much easier when a franchise system demonstrates long-term stability, strong unit performance and consistent franchisee success, and that is exactly where&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthousefranchise.com/">Children’s Lighthouse</a> stands out.With a FUND score of 805, a 97.3% compounded historical unit success rate and five consecutive years of 100% annual unit success,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/info">Children’s Lighthouse</a> has positioned itself among the top-performing franchise systems in the country. Those metrics directly impact how banks and SBA lenders evaluate financing opportunities for franchise candidates.<h2>Why Early Education Is an Attractive Category</h2><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-martin-96a1783b">Samantha Martin</a>, Senior Business Development Officer at Huntington Bank, explained that, from a lender’s perspective, demand for quality childcare remains resilient regardless of broader economic conditions.“What I like about early education is that it is very stable,” Martin said. “Most families have dual-income households and they need reliable, quality childcare. Regardless of what the economy is doing, people are going to need this.”That recurring need creates recurring revenue, which is something lenders pay close attention to. “Once you get a child in the school, you want to keep them from infant to pre-K,” Martin said. “When you layer in a brand with a successful track record and they have nearly 100 units and a 97% success rate, you have a great industry and you have a great track record.”<a href="https://frandata.com/fund-franchise-credit-score/">The FRANdata FUND report</a> reinforces that point. Over the past eight years,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse">Children’s Lighthouse</a> achieved a 97.3% compounded historical unit success rate, placing the brand at “the upper end of the top quintile among all concepts in franchising.”<h2>Why FUND Scores Matter to Banks</h2>Lenders rely heavily on tools like the FUND score to evaluate risk. Martin noted that the FUND™ analysis evaluates multiple areas of franchise performance, including unit-level outcomes, franchisee success, franchisor financial health and operational stability.The FRANdata report highlighted several factors contributing to Children’s Lighthouse’s strong rating, including:<ul><li>Strong franchisor financial performance</li><li>Low transfer activity and no refranchising</li><li>Recurring revenue self-sufficiency</li><li>Strong franchisee-franchisor relationships</li><li>Consistent average unit revenue growth</li></ul><h2>The Advantage of a Proven Franchise Model</h2>One of the biggest differences between financing a franchise and financing an independent startup is predictability.“Franchise lending has some predictability to it,” Martin said. “In Children’s Lighthouse’s case, they have nearly 100 units. You can see how those units have done over the past 20-plus years, and you can see that to understand the business and how successful the franchisees have been over a long period of time.”By comparison, independent startups often rely heavily on projections and assumptions.“When you are underwriting a new franchise or business, you are relying on projections,” Martin said. “Those can be all over the place. That track record makes you feel a lot better about lending to a new business.”Lenders also value the infrastructure and support systems that come with established franchise brands. “If you are starting a new school or building a new school, having a team that is going to support you in getting that done, and all the training and support, the lender likes knowing that,” Martin said. “Banks like franchise businesses because there is another level of screening there from the franchisors.”<h2>The Importance of Strong Revenue Growth&nbsp;</h2>Martin pointed to Children’s Lighthouse’s revenue history as another reason lenders may view the brand favorably, with&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-childrens-lighthouse-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2726111">average unit revenues increasing from about $1.5 million in 2021 to $2 million in 2024</a> and a 9.9% compound annual growth rate that outpaced industry peers.“Over time, these businesses want to show revenue growth because it means they are growing, succeeding and staying in business,” Martin said. “It is actually growing and improving.”Martin also emphasized that franchisee satisfaction and operational stability matter just as much as top-line performance.“In terms of system stability, it’s good to know how the franchisees rate the franchisor in terms of support and stability,” she said. “You want to lend money to a franchise that is doing all those things.”<h2>What Candidates Often Misunderstand About Financing</h2>For first-time franchisees, the financing process can feel intimidating, especially for those unfamiliar with SBA lending. “If it’s your first time borrowing money, you might think it’s like a mortgage,” Martin said. “But there is a lot more that is factored into addressing risk with a business loan like this. It’s not only about personal finances. It’s also about relevant business experience. Have they managed people, budgets, etc.? Would they do well in this industry? Are they a hard worker? Are they going to be kind and empathetic to parents?”She noted that franchise systems help reduce risk because franchisors conduct their own screening and provide operational support throughout the process.“A lot of lenders won’t even entertain an independent school,” Martin said. “A non-franchise route is going to have to rely on borrowing money from family and friends or getting investors. At the end of the day, banks want businesses that are repeatable. When you have brands like Children’s Lighthouse that have strong revenue growth and system stability, that is the kind of borrower that banks want to lend to.”<a href="https://streamyard.com/watch/HnmBhnDCyhn5">Register here</a> for an upcoming Live Webinar with 1851 Publisher&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/powills/">Nick Powills</a> and Samantha Marin on June 23, at 1 pm ET/10 am PT, as they discuss why Children’s Lighthouses' strong revenue growth and high fund score make funding options more accessible for entrepreneurs.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse">https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse</a>.

Image of a children's lighthouse school franchise

Children’s Lighthouse boasts a FUND™ score of 805, a 97.3% compounded historical unit success rate and five consecutive years of 100% annual unit success. Here’s why that matters.

Why Children’s Lighthouse Franchisees Have an Easier Path to Funding

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As artificial intelligence rapidly transforms the global workforce, one question is becoming increasingly urgent for both employees and investors: Which industries will remain essential in the years ahead?From layoffs in tech to automation across white-collar roles, the shift is already underway. But while AI is disrupting many sectors, one category continues to stand apart: early childhood education. And for brands like&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthousefranchise.com/">Children’s Lighthouse</a>, the early education and childcare franchise, that creates a compelling opportunity at the intersection of purpose and long-term financial stability.<h2>AI Is Changing the Rules of Work</h2>The rise of AI is not theoretical — it’s already reshaping hiring, job security and career paths.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nu.edu/blog/ai-job-statistics/">According to recent workforce studies</a>, up to 30% of current job tasks could be automated by the early 2030s, with knowledge-based roles in finance, marketing, customer service and even software development among the most affected.This shift is contributing to a broader sense of uncertainty. Workers across industries are reevaluating their career paths, prioritizing stability, income resilience and industries that are less vulnerable to automation.“We are going to see changes in the job market, and people are really thinking about what jobs will still be out there in the future,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-kelton">Matt Kelton</a>, Vice President of Franchise Development for&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/info">Children’s Lighthouse</a>. “A lot of white-collar, knowledge economy jobs are going away. How can we thrive and maintain income for our families?”That question is driving more prospective entrepreneurs to explore business ownership — particularly in industries that are rooted in human interaction and essential services.<h2>Why Childcare Demand Is Only Growing</h2>While AI may replace tasks, it cannot replace fundamental societal needs. Childcare is one of them.In the U.S.,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/12/11/single-income-households.html">the majority of households rely on dual incomes</a>, and workforce participation continues to rebound post-pandemic. At the same time,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/tomaspremuzic/2025/02/28/the-real-reasons-companies-are-forcing-you-back-to-the-office/">many companies are requiring employees to return to the office</a>, increasing the need for reliable, high-quality childcare.Kelton points to this trend as a major driver of sustained need. “Parents are going to continue to have to work and earn an income,” he said. “I was just talking to somebody who works in finance — she worked remote during COVID, but she’s being called back to the office. That is happening a lot in the tech world. So our demand is going to continue to grow.”The numbers support this.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/us-child-care-market">The $65 billion U.S. childcare market is projected to grow steadily over the next decade</a>, while supply remains constrained in many regions.For Children’s Lighthouse, that need is already visible across its system. “It’s a business that has incredible demand — the number of parents that have a need for our services is at a record level,” Kelton said. “We have waitlists all over the country.”<h2>The Human Element AI Can’t Replace</h2>At its core, early childhood education is about development, connection and care. These are areas where AI simply cannot compete.“AI is not changing diapers,” Kelton said. “There is still a human interaction of teaching kids, loving them, and helping them grow.”That human element is exactly what makes the industry so durable. While AI can process data, it cannot replicate emotional intelligence, hands-on care or the trust parents place in educators during a child’s most formative years.Children’s Lighthouse builds on this foundation with its&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/how-childrens-lighthouses-exceptional-curriculum-helps-the-brand-stand-out-as-a-childcare-franchise-2727632">proprietary Lighthouse Pathways® curriculum</a>, which focuses on both academic readiness and social-emotional development — further reinforcing the brand’s positioning as an early learning institution rather than a traditional daycare.<h2>Turning Uncertainty Into Opportunity</h2>The AI revolution is forcing a reset across the workforce. For many, that reset is unsettling. But for others, it’s a moment to rethink how they earn, invest and build for the future.Early childhood education and brands like Children’s Lighthouse offer a rare combination: essential demand, limited automation risk and meaningful impact.“People are asking themselves, ‘What is going to be around in five or ten years?’” Kelton said. “This is an industry that isn’t going anywhere.”To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse">https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse</a>.

As AI reshapes the job market, service businesses built on human connection stand out. Children’s Lighthouse offers entrepreneurs both purpose and financial potential.

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As it enters the second half of 2026,&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthousefranchise.com/">Children’s Lighthouse</a> is continuing to build on the momentum generated by a record-setting 2025, advancing school development projects, investing in franchisee support technology and expanding its presence in high-demand markets across the country. The company had groundbreakings in Hockley Jubilee and Northlake in April, and plans to open a school in Fulshear this summer.“We've spent the first half of the year doing exactly what we set out to do, supporting our franchisees, advancing projects already in the pipeline and preparing for the next phase of growth,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-kelton/">Matt Kelton</a>, Vice President of Franchise Development. “We're being intentional about where we grow, who we partner with and how we support our schools. That approach continues to position us well for long-term success.”<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/info">Children’s Lighthouse</a> operates in a recession-resistant and essential category. More than two-thirds of U.S. children under age 6 live in households where both parents work, for example, which drives increasing demand for trusted childcare and early education solutions. The U.S. childcare market was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2024/03/06/2841618/0/en/U-S-Child-Care-Market-Size-to-Surpass-USD-88-22-Billion-by-2033.html">valued at approximately $59 billion in 2023</a> and is projected to exceed $88 billion by 2033.Children’s Lighthouse addresses that demand through its&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/pathways">proprietary Lighthouse Pathways® curriculum</a>, which combines age-appropriate education with character development and values-based learning. The curriculum includes Lighthouse BRIGHT® for infants and toddlers, Lighthouse CARES® for preschool-aged children and xSTREAM Quest® for school-age students, helping children develop academic, social and emotional skills at every stage.Throughout the first half of 2026, Children’s Lighthouse continued advancing development projects across its system, including&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/childrens-lighthouse-franchise-expansion-2025-2026-pipeline-2731091">celebrating the groundbreaking of its first Tennessee location</a> and supporting franchisees through site selection, real estate acquisition and development planning.The brand has also continued building momentum in Florida, one of its key growth markets. Following its participation at&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/childrens-lighthouse-to-exhibit-at-the-national-franchise-show-in-orlando-showcasing-growth-across-florida-2731962">The National Franchise Show in Orlando earlier this year</a>, Children’s Lighthouse remains focused on expanding throughout Central Florida, Tampa Bay and Southwest Florida, where population growth and demand for early education continue creating opportunities for new schools.In addition to development activity, Children’s Lighthouse has invested heavily in operational support and technology during the first half of the year.The brand recently&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/ai-powered-support-tools-2732319#featured">launched a suite of AI-powered tools</a> designed to improve communication, streamline marketing efforts and help franchisees spend more time focused on children, families and school operations. These tools include AI-powered website chat, automated review management, enhanced listings management and advanced call-tracking capabilities.“Technology should help our franchisees focus on what matters most,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/berrycolin/">Colin Berry</a>, Vice President of Brand Development. “These tools are designed to remove administrative burdens, improve responsiveness and create a better experience for both families and operators.”The new AI systems allow prospective families to receive immediate answers outside of business hours while helping schools maintain consistent online engagement and reputation management across the system.Earlier this year, Children’s Lighthouse franchisees and the leadership team also gathered at the brand’s annual Franchise Conference, where the theme of Culture and Connection reinforced the importance of operational excellence and alignment across the growing system.“As we continue to scale, culture remains one of our greatest strengths,” Kelton said. “The conference reminded us that strong relationships, consistent execution and shared values are what drive success across every school.”Looking ahead, Children’s Lighthouse remains focused on several key target markets, including Orlando, Tampa, Austin, Indianapolis, Nashville, Raleigh and Charlotte, where population growth and family demographics align well with the brand’s model.“We're laying the foundation for where this brand will be five, 10 and 20 years from now,” Kelton said. “The momentum we're seeing today is really a reflection of the strength of our franchisees, our team and the growing need for the services we provide.”To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse">https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse</a>.About Children’s LighthouseThe Children’s Lighthouse brand was established in Fort Worth, Texas in 1997. The Children’s Lighthouse Early Learning Schools® brand promises to create a safe, fun, and happy place that gives children confidence, a sense of comfort today, and a lifelong love of learning, friendship, and community. Children’s Lighthouse focuses on age-appropriate and values-based curriculums that focus on kindergarten readiness and creating lifelong learners. In 2025, Children's Lighthouse was ranked on the Entrepreneur 500 and as a Top Franchise for 2025 by Franchise Business Review. In 2024, Children's Lighthouse was featured on the Franchise Times Top 400. &nbsp;

The early education franchise advances expansion plans, strengthens franchisee support systems and positions for long-term growth in high-demand markets.

Matt Kelton of Children’s Lighthouse on Franchising Success: Proven Systems and Support

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