BNC Pathways to Nature Preschool

Welcome!

Pathways to Nature (PTN) Preschool is a nature-based preschool program nestled in the heart of the city at the Boston Nature Center. We are so excited that you found us!

PTN recognizes the various needs of children of different ages, cultures, and ethnic backgrounds, learning styles, and stages of development to create a safe, engaging atmosphere for young learners.

We encourage you to download our informational packet to learn more about our teaching philosophy, curriculum, classes, and our commitment to anti-bias teaching.

Mission Statement

Pathways to Nature serves a diverse community of students, ages 3-6, primarily from surrounding Boston neighborhoods.

Our program provides age-appropriate, experiential, and inquiry-based activities, which adhere to the practices of Massachusetts standards, in a nurturing learning environment through a focus on structured and unstructured outdoor play.

PTN encourages child-led inquiry and respect for our students as learners and their ability to construct their own knowledge.

Program Goals

PTN offers an educational and nurturing program that is hands-on and inquiry-based. Our goals are to:

1. Provide children with a safe environment to grow, learn, and respect people and nature.
2. Connect children to nature to develop a lifelong passion for the environment and its stewardship.
3. Help children recognize the natural world as part of the urban environment.

Children explore, discover, observe, and experience the natural world using all of their senses while developing an appreciation for nature. Structured and self-directed play nurtures children’s imagination, creativity, and self-esteem.

This program is licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education & Care, and we are following all of their COVID-19 protocols for health and safety. The BNC is in compliance with the design standards for building accessibility in 521 CMR (Architectural Access Board).

Classes & Schedule

Pathways to Nature classes are full-day programs that run five days a week (Monday through Friday).

The full-day school year runs from September–August. Tuition is based on a sliding scale.

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FULL-DAY PRESCHOOL

Monday – Friday • 8:00 am–3:30 pm

Families provide lunch and snacks for all preschool options.

• Busy Bees is for children turning age 3 by September.
• Curious Crickets is for children turning age 4 by September.
• Daring Dragonflies is for children ages 5-6 (runs September–June).

EXTENDED DAY (Optional)

Monday – Friday • 3:30–6:00 pm

For an additional cost, PTN families have the option of enrolling in our Extended Day program as well.