Kids who take part in Snapology classes think they’re just having fun playing with building blocks and other materials that snap together. What they may not realize is that they’re learning, too.

In addition to being introduced to science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM), Snapology students learn skills like patience and teamwork and have a place to engage their creativity.

This unique combination of fun and learning drew sisters Laura and Lisa Coe to launch Snapology in 2010. Since then, they have offered a variety of interactive, play-based programs using LEGO® bricks and other similar building tools and technology. Recently, they launched plans to expand their national footprint via franchising.

With 22 locations throughout the United States and Canada – four of which have opened since the franchise opportunity was officially launched four months ago – company plans call for opening a couple of new locations by the end of this year and opening 20 new locations per year moving forward.

“The children’s franchise sector remains healthy and vibrant and will continue to perform well,” said Laura Coe. “A steady demand for our services and programs, coupled with the desire of parents to spend on behalf of their children provides a stable foundation for our expansion plans. We have no reason to look to the future with anything but enthusiasm.”

According to a 2014 FranchiseGrade report, the children’s services franchise sector – including educational services, child daycare, sports/fitness training and enrichment/arts programs – is one of the fastest growing in the country, growing at more than three times the franchise industry’s average since 2013. In fact, as an industry, 75 percent of all children’s services franchises achieved net growth between 2010 and 2014.

Snapology offers a wide array of interactive, play-based activities for children ages 1-14 – including enrichment classes, birthday parties, workshops, camps, scouting events and field trips – mainly using building materials such as LEGO® bricks and other similar building tools and technology. The programs can be customized based on the number of children, age of children and time allotment, and can be broken down into individual classes, such as superhero or Minecraft themed events, competition robotics teams, science classes, team building events and motor skill development courses that are perfect for pre-school children.

Additionally, the curriculum is designed to benefit gifted and traditional students, as well as children with special needs, including those with sensory processing and autism spectrum disorders.

“Our approach is based on proven research; that children’s’ best learning experiences come from actively designing, creating, interacting and inventing,” said Lisa Coe, noting that Snapology’s work is about re-defining play and re-imagining learning. “We’re helping children develop the intellectual, emotional, social and creative skills that are of lifelong benefit to them and their communities.”

To augment the company’s growth, Snapology is actively seeking franchisees interested in capitalizing on the $45 billion child care industry. Including a franchise fee of $24,000, the total investment to own and operate a protected territory which is more than twice as big as those offered by many of Snapology’s competitors is $35,000-$55,000.