Our Programs
BOPN offers school year and seasonal programs for children ages 15 months - 8 years, across our locations in Jamaica Plain, Malden, Milton, Natick, Sudbury and Sherborn.
We provide mixed age, nature-immersive programs designed to teach resilience, persistence, and problem solving.
Through play, engaging with nature, and exploring carefully curated materials, children develop habits of mind that foster social-emotional well-being and school readiness.
“I feel like BOPN has brought out the best in my sons and met any challenges they’ve had with patience and understanding. It is amazing to see how strong and resilient kids can be!”
- Allison I.
“They have so much physical space outside and so many staff to support, so they really can meet each kid where they are at rather than having no choice but to fit each kid into a box. The way they all play in nature builds so much awareness and respect...for each other as well as animals and the earth. I really can’t imagine a better preschool setting for my son.”
- Annie C.
Curriculum at BOPN
Our lessons develop organically from the opportunities presented each day. Teachers support learning by asking questions such as:
“What is different today?”
“How do you think it got that way?”
“What do you notice?”
“What do you think it is?”
“What else could it be?”
What’s Next?
1. Inquire:
Submitting an inquiry form tells us you’d like to learn more about BOPN. We will respond with brief introductory information, and help you arrange a tour.
2. Visit:
Touring allows you to see our philosophy in practice, chat with our experienced nature educators, and enjoy the forests, gardens, and landscapes that BOPN children explore each day. Dress for the weather, and bring the kids!
3. Apply:
Submit your enrollment application and fee. Financial assistance is available, and applications for Financial Aid must be submitted with enrollment applications.
4. Enroll:
Pending availability and admission, you will receive an invitation to enroll. We will provide everything you need to complete the enrollment process online.
Take the first step.
Meet Our Founders
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Sarah Besse
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Sarah develops innovative early education programs to engage the whole child while fostering joy and creativity. She draws on experiences that have taught her to value connection with nature as essential for the well-being of individuals, communities, and our planet…
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Shela Sinelien
DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMS AND EDUCATION
With over ten years of experience as an early childhood teacher, Shela brings joy and warmth to her teaching. She builds on each child’s unique strengths and interests while creating a strong sense of community.
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Sara Murray
TEACHER COACH, TODDLER CONNECTIONS LEADER
Sara is a seasoned educator with a variety of experiences in Early Childhood and Elementary programs in upstate New York, where she grew up, and the greater Boston area where she has lived for almost 25 years.
Follow the FUN!
