Discover a world in nature

Boston Outdoor Preschool Network

Play-based Outdoor Early Education Programs for Children

Let nature be your child’s classroom

Cultivate Curiosity, Connection, & Confidence

BOPN offers a unique educational experience that promotes exploration, curiosity, and discovery in a natural, outdoor environment.

With dedicated educators who encourage children's creativity and critical thinking skills, our school is the perfect place for your child to learn and grow.

BOPN programs are located throughout the Greater Boston area.

Ignite your child’s love of learning & nature.

Discover BOPN’s nurturing environment where exploration and creativity are encouraged, setting the foundation for environmental stewardship and a lifelong love of learning.

Learn more about us!

Supporting children ages 15 months through 6 years

BOPN offers mixed-age programming for toddler, preschool, pre-K & kindergarten-aged children.

Through play, engaging with nature, and exploring thoughtfully selected materials, children cultivate mental habits and physical confidence that contribute to social-emotional well-being and school readiness.

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Meet Boston Outdoor Preschool Network

Boston Outdoor Preschool Network (BOPN) is a 501c3 nonprofit organization focused on nature-based early childhood education. We are committed to nature immersion, interest-led learning, inquiry-based teaching, and authentic play.

Our school year and summer programs are located throughout the Boston area.

Equity Projects

Every child deserves access to high-quality outdoor education.

Our dedicated team works to create opportunities for children throughout Boston, fostering a passion for nature and environmental stewardship.

By bridging the gap and empowering every child to connect with nature, we're not only nurturing future environmental stewards but also creating a more equitable society where each child can thrive.

Interested in reading more about nature-based education?

Check out BOPN’s blog!

Read articles and musings from BOPN Educators & Staff

So what’s next?!

Schedule a virtual info session or in-person tour to see our programs in action!

Find Us on Instagram

Find Us on Instagram

Registration is open for our summer session of Toddler Connections! This popular nature playgroup is led by BOPN Co-Founder, Sara Murray at the @arnold_arboretum. Created specifically for toddlers aged 15 months to 2.9 years, families connect with th
Registration is open for our summer session of Toddler Connections! This popular nature playgroup is led by BOPN Co-Founder, Sara Murray at the @arnold_arboretum. Created specifically for toddlers aged 15 months to 2.9 years, families connect with the outdoors and one another, while learning about nature-based early childhood education. This program fills up fast, secure your spot today! Find the link with more info + registration in our bio.
🌬️🪁 Endless fun in nature! BOPN's 'Hopping Frogs' embrace the wind, using it as a tool for creativity and adventure. 🌿 It was a blast flying kites and even crafting their own from scratch!
Did you and your family have a stellar time watching the eclipse yesterday? 🌘 BOPN was buzzing with excitement! Our Malden group even threw an epic eclipse party after class. Now it's time to share the fun – comment with your eclipse photos and stories below!
At BOPN, every muddy adventure holds the promise of discovery and joy. Follow along and witness the magic of childhood in the great outdoors! 🌦️🌱
Windy days are for wild adventures at BOPN! Our fantastic teachers see the weather as an essential tool in their toolkit. And the windy weather worked its magic, turning the streamers into playful companions for the kids. They had an absolute blast!
The Milton Basking Lizards have been busy crafting bird feeders at the Forbes House! At BOPN, our child-led curriculum empowers young learners to explore their interests freely. Are you considering a nature-based preschool for your child? BOPN has ex
The Milton Basking Lizards have been busy crafting bird feeders at the Forbes House! At BOPN, our child-led curriculum empowers young learners to explore their interests freely. Are you considering a nature-based preschool for your child? BOPN has expanded in Milton, now offering programs at the Forbes House and Eustis Estate, ages 2.0-5! Inquire today ☀️
🎨🌍 Embracing creativity in nature’s classroom. BOPN adventurers use a shower curtain as a reusable canvas, kudos to their brilliant teachers!
Due to overwhelming popularity, our Milton Toddler Connections playgroup is expanding with the addition of a second session! This spring, we extend a warm invitation to you and your little one to experience the magic of our nature-based toddler pla
Due to overwhelming popularity, our Milton Toddler Connections playgroup is expanding with the addition of a second session! This spring, we extend a warm invitation to you and your little one to experience the magic of our nature-based toddler playgroup at the captivating Eustis Estate. Led by BOPN Co-Founder Sara Murray, this program promises engaging activities such as songs, nature-based storytelling, and free play, all designed to nurture your child's development. Plus, your toddler will have the wonderful opportunity to socialize and interact with other toddlers in a supportive environment. Don't let this enriching opportunity pass you by—join us for a memorable journey of exploration and growth for both you and your child! Ages 15 months - 2.9 years See link in our bio to learn more + register!
What are you up to this spring break? BOPN is thrilled to provide mixed-age, half-day nature immersion programs during April school vacation week! 🌳📚 Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity for your child to connect with nature during daily adventures at the @Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University in JP/Roslindale! Register now to secure your spot! 🌿 April 15 - 19th, 9AM -12PM Learn more + register here: https://www.bopn.org/vacation-week-programs
🌿 Explore, Learn, Grow! Discover the wonders of nature with Boston Outdoor Preschool Network. Enrolling now for April Vacation, Summer, Spring Toddler Connections and School Year 2024-25 🌱
Registration is open for our summer session of Toddler Connections! This popular nature playgroup is led by BOPN Co-Founder, Sara Murray at the @arnold_arboretum. Created specifically for toddlers aged 15 months to 2.9 years, families connect with th
🌬️🪁 Endless fun in nature! BOPN's 'Hopping Frogs' embrace the wind, using it as a tool for creativity and adventure. 🌿 It was a blast flying kites and even crafting their own from scratch!
Did you and your family have a stellar time watching the eclipse yesterday? 🌘 BOPN was buzzing with excitement! Our Malden group even threw an epic eclipse party after class. Now it's time to share the fun – comment with your eclipse photos
At BOPN, every muddy adventure holds the promise of discovery and joy. Follow along and witness the magic of childhood in the great outdoors! 🌦️🌱
Windy days are for wild adventures at BOPN! Our fantastic teachers see the weather as an essential tool in their toolkit. And the windy weather worked its magic, turning the streamers into playful companions for the kids. They had an absolute blast
The Milton Basking Lizards have been busy crafting bird feeders at the Forbes House! At BOPN, our child-led curriculum empowers young learners to explore their interests freely. Are you considering a nature-based preschool for your child? BOPN has ex
🎨🌍 Embracing creativity in nature’s classroom. BOPN adventurers use a shower curtain as a reusable canvas, kudos to their brilliant teachers!
Due to overwhelming popularity, our Milton Toddler Connections playgroup is expanding with the addition of a second session! This spring, we extend a warm invitation to you and your little one to experience the magic of our nature-based toddler pla
What are you up to this spring break? BOPN is thrilled to provide mixed-age, half-day nature immersion programs during April school vacation week! 🌳📚 Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity for your child to connect with nature during daily
🌿 Explore, Learn, Grow! Discover the wonders of nature with Boston Outdoor Preschool Network. Enrolling now for April Vacation, Summer, Spring Toddler Connections and School Year 2024-25 🌱