Kids and education franchises seem to go hand in hand, so we asked resident franchise expert Janice Durant, CFC and president of New Trails Business Consultants, Inc., a FranServe, Inc. affiliate, why that is and what other opportunities there are that don’t necessarily combine the two.
What kinds of franchise concepts fall under the kids and education categories?
Kids and education franchises span a surprisingly wide range of concepts. After-school enrichment programs, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math), coding, robotics, tutoring, SAT/ACT prep and driver’s education all fall under this category.
Many of these are partner-based delivery models where the partner provides the location and built-in audience while the franchise provides curriculum, supplies and trained staff. Programs are designed with age-appropriate goals in mind. Pre-school and elementary concepts focus on movement, confidence and fun such as introductory soccer, yoga or cheerleading. STEAM programs, wildly popular with both parents and kids, tap into children’s natural curiosity by presenting real problems to solve using creativity and imagination. Coding and robotics programs take that a step further, giving children hands-on experience with the technology shaping their future. Middle and high schoolers are served through tutoring, test prep and driver’s education.
Do you frequently recommend these two sectors to your clients?
Absolutely! According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 85% of U.S. public K–12 schools offered afterschool programs in 2024-25 with 60% focused on academic enrichment. The summer camp industry adds billions more to that demand. Parents today aren’t simply looking for childcare; they want their children engaged, learning and socializing.
This category works for a parent re-entering the workforce seeking a flexible model and for those who want to build a scalable business. There’s something here for nearly every goal and lifestyle. Most owners are not facilitating programs themselves. They’re building relationships with schools and childcare providers, assembling a team and growing the business.
Summer camps extend revenue well beyond the school year, making these recurring, community-rooted businesses.
Are there franchise opportunities available that focus on kids without education being front and center?
Yes, kids’ services extend well beyond the classroom. Sports and fitness concepts, leagues and summer camps are some of the most popular. Beyond athletic skills, these programs deliver confidence and emotional resilience. Fun and personal growth are the name of the game.
Childcare concepts – from drop-off centers to nanny placement services – focus on caring for children while parents work. There are also franchises for children’s hair salons and entertainment concepts like arcades, inflatables and bowling alleys that create memorable celebrations for kids of all ages. Not to be overlooked are brands that serve schools with photography or fundraising services.
Whether you’re positioned at the lower end of the investment scale with mobile and partner-based concepts starting at $25,000, or higher end investments, which can run over $3 million, such as preschools and full-scale daycare centers, Durant concluded: “At every investment level, you’re building something that matters to the children you serve, the parents who trust you and the community you call home.”
Nancy E. Williams