Early Learning Center Sarasota, FL: Nurturing Young Minds at Baby Fox Academy

Act with Integrity

Exceed Expectations

Invest in our Staff, Families,
and Community

Inspire Innovation in
Early Childhood Education

A Trusted Early Learning Center

Baby Fox Academy is a premier early learning center located in Sarasota, FL, dedicated to providing a nurturing, high-quality preschool experience for young children. Owned and operated by Laurie and Matt McCracken, Baby Fox Academy offers an enriched environment where children can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Laurie McCracken, with over 25 years of early childhood teaching experience and a variety of endorsements, brings a wealth of expertise to the academy. Her extensive background ensures that every child at Baby Fox Academy benefits from a structured, developmentally appropriate curriculum tailored to foster growth and exploration.

At Baby Fox Academy, our philosophy is rooted in the belief that early learning should be a joyful journey, blending structured learning with ample opportunities for play. Our curriculum emphasizes both indoor and outdoor activities to provide a holistic learning experience that engages children on multiple levels. We take pride in creating an environment where children are encouraged to ask questions, explore new concepts, and develop essential life skills in a fun and engaging way.

What does the Fox say?

A Tradition of Excellence

Laurie McCracken’s passion for early childhood education began long before she and her husband founded Baby Fox Academy. In 2014, Laurie was part of an acclaimed school that focused on the Accelerated Reader Program, a points-based system designed to boost reading proficiency and a love for literature among students. 

The school aimed to achieve International Baccalaureate certification and fostered an environment of academic excellence. Laurie took on this challenge enthusiastically, working closely with her students to exceed their reading goals and setting a high standard for teaching. This experience inspired her to establish an early learning center where children would be equally encouraged to explore, grow, and excel.

At Baby Fox Academy, Laurie and Matt have translated this dedication into a unique, play-based learning approach. Our early learning center in Sarasota, FL, is carefully designed to balance academic growth with creative expression, giving children the freedom to learn at their own pace while being guided by experienced educators.

What Sets Baby Fox Academy Apart?

As an early learning center in Sarasota, FL, Baby Fox Academy offers a play-based, child-centered approach that supports children’s natural curiosity and desire to learn. Our classrooms are thoughtfully organized to encourage exploration, creativity, and collaboration among peers. We believe that play is a crucial aspect of early childhood development, as it lays the foundation for problem-solving, communication, and social skills.

At Baby Fox Academy, we incorporate various elements into our program to create a well-rounded experience:

Structured Learning

Each day is structured with activities designed to promote literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional skills.

Outdoor Play

Our outdoor learning areas provide children with the chance to explore nature, develop motor skills, and engage in imaginative play.

Social Interaction

We encourage teamwork, kindness, and empathy among children, building a strong sense of community and cooperation.

Creative Expression

Art, music, and movement activities allow children to express themselves freely, fostering confidence and self-esteem.

Mission of Baby Fox Academy

Our mission at Baby Fox Academy is to provide a high-quality early learning program in Sarasota, FL, that nurtures every child’s unique talents and interests. We are committed to creating a safe and engaging environment where children feel valued and empowered. Our role as educators goes beyond teaching – we aim to be facilitators of each child’s learning journey, allowing them to take the lead in their exploration and discovery.

By offering an environment rich with opportunities for play-based learning, we help children build foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional development. Our mission is to support each child’s growth, enabling them to enter the next phase of their educational journey with confidence and a love for learning.

Vision: Setting the Standard for Early Learning in Sarasota, FL

At Baby Fox Academy, our vision is to set a benchmark for developmentally appropriate, hands-on early childhood education in Sarasota, FL. We believe that the early years are critical for laying a strong foundation for lifelong learning, and we strive to be a model of excellence in early childhood education. Our goal is to raise awareness within the Sarasota community about the importance of early learning and the role of play in child development.

Through our commitment to play-based, individualized learning, we aim to inspire other early learning centers in Sarasota, FL, to adopt similar practices, enhancing the quality of early childhood education throughout the area. We are passionate advocates for children’s rights to learn in a way that honors their individuality and fosters creativity, resilience, and curiosity.

Our Gallery

Philosophy: Learning Through Play

At Baby Fox Academy, we are deeply committed to the philosophy that children learn best through play. We believe that play is not just a leisure activity but a vital part of a child’s development. Our approach to early learning in Sarasota, FL, emphasizes open-ended play, where children have the freedom to make choices and explore without unnecessary restrictions.

We aim to create a stimulating environment that encourages children to take risks, make discoveries, and express their creativity. In our classrooms, children engage in activities that promote cognitive, social, and emotional growth. For example, through imaginative play, children develop problem-solving skills, while hands-on activities in math and science foster critical thinking. Our educators act as facilitators, guiding children’s play to enrich their learning experience and encouraging them to be active participants in their own education.

Your Little Ones are in Great Hands!

Take it from Our Parents

Why Choose Baby Fox Academy?

Choosing an early learning center is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. At Baby Fox Academy, we understand the trust that families place in us, and we are committed to providing the highest quality of care and education for each child in our program. Here are just a few reasons why Baby Fox Academy stands out as a top choice for early learning in Sarasota, FL:

Experienced Educators: Our teachers bring extensive experience and passion for early childhood education, ensuring that each child receives personalized attention and guidance.

Play-Based Learning: Our curriculum is rooted in the belief that children learn best through play, which helps them develop essential skills in a fun and engaging way.

Safe and Nurturing Environment: We prioritize the safety and well-being of our students, creating a supportive atmosphere where children feel comfortable exploring and taking risks.

Community Engagement: We believe in the importance of community and actively involve parents and families in our programs, fostering a strong support network for each child’s development.

Enroll Your Child at Baby Fox Academy Today

If you’re searching for a high-quality early learning center in Sarasota, FL, that prioritizes your child’s growth and well-being, look no further than Baby Fox Academy.

Our program is designed to meet the unique needs of each child, providing a nurturing environment that encourages exploration, creativity, and learning. We invite you to visit our center and see firsthand how our play-based approach can make a difference in your child’s early education journey.

Baby Fox Academy is here to support your child’s development every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about our programs or to schedule a tour. Discover why families in Sarasota, FL, trust us to be a part of their child’s educational journey. Let’s work together to lay the foundation for a lifetime of learning and success.

By choosing Baby Fox Academy, you’re giving your child the gift of a quality early education in an environment that celebrates their individuality and fosters a lifelong love for learning. We look forward to welcoming your family to our community and being a part of your child’s growth and development.