Hi, friends! The kids call me Miss Fox, and I’m so excited to meet you and your family! I founded Creative Nature Academy in 2014, inspired by a deep love for nature and a passion for nurturing curiosity through gentle guidance and playful exploration. Since then, our program has been a joyful part of many children’s journeys in West Michigan, helping them grow, connect, and thrive outdoors.
As a pioneer in nature-based education with 20 years of experience, I blend research-driven practices, child-centered curriculum design, and place-based learning with a deep respect for each child’s unique path. At Creative Nature Academy, we create spaces where curiosity blooms, creativity thrives, and nature becomes a lifelong teacher. Our programs weave outdoor exploration with social, emotional, and cognitive growth—helping children build resilience, develop leadership, and discover their own North Star in harmony with the natural world.
If you’re in West Michigan and looking for a nature-based program for your child, we invite you to explore our offerings and join us on this playful journey of learning and wonder. I also offer consulting for educators, parents, and others seeking to launch or grow their own nature-based programs. Whether you’re looking for research-based curriculum design, program development, or inspiration, I’d love to connect and explore how we can nurture wonder together.
Creative Nature Academy is the only nature-based education in West Michigan that takes students on a pilgrimage to the altars of leadership, creativity, and wonder, where the explorer within each child is honored, celebrated, and nurtured as sacred - accessed through gentle guidance into Blandford Nature Center where the spirit of adventure mingles with the whispers of the wild, right in the heart of Grand Rapids.
Founded in 2014
Homeschool Partnership
The Homschool Partnership is for families that believe both the value of natural connection and the language of nature to be an integral piece of childhood. Our classes are supplemental to homeschoolers and offer options for multiple ages, and also parterning with area schools.
Adult
Classes
Play is vital for kid in all of us. Going outside and adventuring into nature is a celebration! If you are looking for an amazing and welcoming community to get outside, or just want a seasoned guide to remind you of the little things you studied as a kid while laying in grass - these classes are so fun!
Nature School Mentoring
Miss Fox offers decades of experience in education working with non profits, public school programs, private schools, and startups without bias or religious affilliation.
Our Vision Statement
We enVISION a world where every person has opportunities to spend time in and connect with nature, nourished and awakened by the awe and wonder of their own journey into curiosity, allowing the whole child within them to thrive and flourish.
Our Mission is to gently guide children and adults on their lifelong pilgrimage into connection with their whole selves through immersion in nature with games, learning the language of nature, and cooperative play - nurturing the whole person.
Mission Statement
Community Words
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"Miss Fox is a warm and caring teacher who sees the best in every child and makes space for their unique self."
Megan
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"I cannot express just how amazing this program is. The environment is so engaging, supportive, and welcoming."
Ashley
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"[Our daughter] was homeschooled until 9th grade, and CNA was a fantastic resource for her and us. She attended a couple of days a week for a few years, then she became a volunteer/mentor."
Tami
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"Miss Fox, the Founder of the school and who our children had as their lead guide, follows a gentle teaching philosophy that keeps learning fun and safe. "
Beth
