How the O’Malleys Went from Creative World Parents to Owners of 5 Schools

What if the best business investment started in your child’s classroom? For Amy and Chris O’Malley, that’s exactly how it happened. Long before they were managing a network of schools across Southwest Florida, they were just parents watching their kids grow at Creative World School Estero and Preschool at the Lamb. They saw the unique curriculum in action, felt the community connection, and it got them thinking about a life beyond the corporate grind. Today, they own five locations, including their newest venture in North Naples, showing that you don’t need to be a lifelong educator to build a successful preschool franchise. Creative World Schools is proud to be recognized as one of the Top 200 Franchises to Buy in 2026 by Franchise Business Review, which highlights the strength of our system and the support available for franchise owners. 

Seeing the Value of High-Quality Early Education 

While you don’t need teaching experience to succeed as a franchise owner, Amy’s background in early childhood education gave her a real sense of what makes a preschool program effective. Chris brought corporate experience and business know-how to the table. Together, they realized they could combine their skills to bring Creative World’s creative and engaging approach to more families. Watching their own kids flourish really showed them how much impact a trusted preschool can have, and it made the idea of ownership feel both exciting and doable. 

From Parents to Franchise Owners 

The idea of owning a preschool became real when their youngest child was born. Chris suggested looking into Creative World as a business opportunity, and Amy immediately saw how her experience could fit. Amy focuses on curriculum, teacher support, and classroom operations, while Chris handles finances, strategy, and day-to-day business decisions. Their skills complement each other perfectly, and that balance has been key to their success. 

Growing Multiple Locations Across Southwest Florida 

Starting with their first school in Estero, the O’Malleys expanded thoughtfully, adding locations in Gateway, Naples, North Naples, and Preschool at the Lamb. Amy stays hands-on in each classroom to support teachers and make sure children are engaged, while Chris oversees finances and growth. Their approach shows how multiple preschool locations can succeed without losing the personal touch that families value. Their newest preschool in North Naples is the latest chapter in their journey. It brings Creative World’s trusted program to new families and gives prospective franchise owners a clear example of how expansion works with the right support and planning.  

Start Your Preschool Franchise Journey with Us 

Their story offers some practical lessons for anyone thinking about opening a preschool franchise. Knowing a brand firsthand gives you insight into what families want. Partnering with someone whose skills complement your own makes ownership more manageable. Staying involved ensures every school reflects your values, and thoughtful growth proves you can expand without compromising quality or community connection. 

Owning a Creative World School is more than running a business. It’s about creating a place where children can explore, learn, and grow while giving families a trusted early education option. The O’Malleys’ story shows that personal experience, practical business skills, and a commitment to community can turn an idea into a successful and rewarding franchise. With recognition as a Top 200 Franchise to Buy in 2026 by Franchise Business Review, Creative World Schools offers proven systems, guidance, and support to help new owners succeed. 

Ready to create your own success story? Contact our franchise team today!