When I first became a mom, I imagined myself as the ultimate stay-at-home parent, channeling my inner Betty Crocker and creating the perfect home life. But shortly after, I realized something was missing. While I adored being with my child, I craved something more – a purpose that went beyond the walls of my home but still allowed me to be present for my family. And so, a tiny seed of an idea was planted: What if I opened my own preschool?
Not just any preschool – I wanted a real learning environment, not just a daycare. I wanted to create a place where young children could come to be seen, heard, and valued, a place where their uniqueness was celebrated. So, with a dash of courage and a lot of heart, I decided to build a classroom onto my house and launch my own preschool right in my home. This was 2001, and I was just 23 years old, juggling new motherhood, a pregnancy, and a vision that felt like a distant dream. But I was determined to make it happen.
At first, I had just two paying students. But within six months, that number had grown to 48, with a waitlist and two employees. My home became a bustling hub of learning, laughter, and growth – both for the children and for me. I opened Loving Start Learning Center in my living room, teaching and nurturing children until my new classroom was ready. For nine years, I ran the school from my home, balancing my roles as a mom, teacher, and business owner. Those were some of the busiest, most fulfilling years of my life.
Working from home changed everything for me. It allowed me to contribute financially, positively impact my community, and stay flexible enough to be there for my family when they needed me most. My preschool wasn’t just a job; it was a way to grow as an individual, explore my potential, and make a difference. I didn’t have to compromise on my dreams or my responsibilities as a mom. I was living proof that a woman could do both – nurture her family and build something incredible from the ground up.
Fast forward almost 25 years, and that tiny seed of an idea has blossomed beyond my wildest dreams. I’ve opened eight schools, transitioned from home-based preschools to commercial locations, and now I’m taking the next big leap: franchising Loving Start Learning Centers. The goal is to go nationwide and help other passionate individuals open their own preschools, whether in their homes or commercial spaces. I want to empower other moms, teachers, and dreamers to find the freedom, fulfillment, and financial stability that I found.
Franchising Loving Start is more than just expanding a business – it’s about sharing a lifestyle that I know can be life-changing. Starting a preschool in my home allowed me to combine my love for children with the flexibility I needed as a mom. It allowed me to build something that mattered, something that gave back to the community and enriched the lives of families. Now, I want to help others plant their own tiny seeds and watch them grow.
If you’re reading this and feeling that same tug I felt all those years ago, take it as a sign. Maybe you’re a mom looking for more, a teacher who wants to be their own boss, or just someone who loves kids and dreams of making a difference. If you have a passion for early childhood education, a love for children, and the drive to make an impact, there’s no reason you can’t turn that spark into a thriving business.
Starting from my living room and growing to eight schools didn’t happen overnight. It took hard work, resilience, and a lot of learning along the way. But the journey was worth every bit of effort, and the rewards are beyond what I could have imagined. Today, Loving Start Learning Centers is more than just a business; it’s a community, a movement, a testament to what’s possible when you believe in yourself and are willing to take that first step.
So, if you’re ready to change your life, impact others, and find a career that aligns with both your passion and your family, consider joining us. I’m thrilled to extend the Loving Start family to individuals across the nation who want to bring quality early childhood education to their communities. Let’s make your dream of owning a preschool a reality – because I’ve been where you are, and I know what’s possible when you nurture that tiny seed of an idea.
Your journey as a mom, teacher, and business owner can be as fulfilling as mine. Together, we can create something beautiful that will impact generations to come.
