Community Highlights: Meet Desiree Cameron of Nature’s Playhouse, Ferndale

Today we’d like to introduce you to Desiree Cameron

Hi Desiree, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Thirteen years ago, Nature’s Playhouse was born in 2011 from the vision of two mothers who longed for a supportive community space to help them navigate the challenges of raising their children. What began as a simple idea soon grew into a cornerstone for families seeking connection and support. In 2015, the business transitioned to new ownership, with three women at the helm who expanded its offerings and solidified its place as a beloved community staple in Ferndale for parents and children alike.

During the pandemic, Nature’s Playhouse became a lifeline for families, adapting quickly to offer virtual classes and online communities at a time when connection was needed most. It proved to be not just a wellness center, but a resilient source of support and togetherness during one of the toughest periods in recent history, the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fast forward to 2024, Nature’s Playhouse has entered an exciting new chapter. Desiree, Mercedes, and Stephanie—former owners of Embrace: A Motherhood Collective—brought their shared vision to life by purchasing and merging the two organizations. Today, Nature’s Playhouse stands as a reimagined wellness space, dedicated to parents and caregivers, offering a holistic range of services designed to nurture families and strengthen communities. From its grassroots origins to its vibrant present, Nature’s Playhouse continues to be a haven for growth, support, and connection.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey has been anything but smooth, especially during and after the pandemic. Yet, the ability to support so many families along the way has made every challenge worthwhile. During the pandemic, we adapted by transitioning many of our classes to virtual platforms while continuing to offer safe in-person options. We kept our support groups accessible virtually, ensuring that families could still find connection during an incredibly difficult time for everyone.
Like many, we faced unexpected hurdles, family illnesses, the need for self-care, and the constant balancing act of life. These challenges pushed us to lean into our own communities, recalibrate, and forge new paths to stay grounded and successful. Through it all, we practiced what we preach: tapping into our network of support while continuing to build and nurture a strong community for others.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Nestled in the heart of Michigan, Nature’s Playhouse is more than just a wellness center—it’s a space for families seeking holistic health and well-being. As a pioneering hub, it offers an impressive range of services designed to nurture every stage of family life. From behavioral health and physical therapy to fitness, birthing, and lactation support, family enrichment programs, infant and child safety classes, and free support groups, Nature’s Playhouse is a beacon of support. The center also leads the charge in perinatal community education, advocacy, and outreach, creating a ripple effect of positive impact throughout the state.

Over the years, Nature’s Playhouse has become a launchpad for many now-renowned organizations dedicated to supporting mothers and families in Michigan. Clients continue to return, not just for the diverse offerings but for the experience itself. They speak of feeling welcomed and safe, appreciating the reasonable pricing, and finding inspiration in the diversity of leadership and staff. For many, Nature’s Playhouse feels like an extension of their own family—a place where community thrives, support is abundant, and everyone is willing to help one another grow.

At Nature’s Playhouse, families don’t just find services; they find connection, empowerment, and a true sense of belonging.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
One of the most crucial steps in achieving your goals is finding your support system. Be honest with yourself about the people you can truly collaborate with. A strong team is built on trust, balance, and shared purpose. Thankfully, we’ve been fortunate to work as an amazing team. We complement one another, each bringing unique expertise and perspectives to the table. Though we come from completely different backgrounds, we are united by a common vision: supporting mothers and families while championing maternal health advocacy and awareness.

Our differences strengthen us, and our shared commitment drives us forward. Together, we’ve shown that diversity in skills and experiences can lead to innovative approaches and meaningful impact.

To all the parents and dreamers out there—keep moving forward. Believe in your abilities. Having children doesn’t mean putting your aspirations on hold. They can serve as your greatest motivation to reach higher and dream bigger. Motherhood/Parenthood and ambition can coexist beautifully. Let your passion, supported by a strong network, lead the way.

Pricing:

• https://naturesplayhouse.janeapp.com/
• We offer Free Support Groups – https://naturesplayhouse.janeapp.com/#/support-groups
• Book a NP therapist: Insurance Accepted: Aetna, BC Complete, BCBS of MI, BCN of MI, Beacon Health, Cigna Behavioral, HAP/Healthplus, Mclaren Commercial, Mclaren Medicaid, Medicaid of MI, Meridian Medicaid, Molina, Optum/UBH/UHC, Priority Health, Private and Sliding Scale Available.
• We offer discounted class packages for Fitness and caregiver classes

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.naturesplayhouse.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturesplayhouse/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/naturesplayhouse/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCI3RZ-6zzy4mN8gRYrD3_Kg