Are you a stay-at-home parent? Does your toddler have a nanny while you work? Or maybe a grandparent helps care for your little one? No matter your situation, Galoop may be exactly what you’ve been looking for!
Galoop isn’t just a toddler class, and it’s not a drop-off program — it’s so much more. It’s a unique program designed for young children and their caregivers. Kids love Galoop, and adults do too. Parents have described Galoop as the “missing link” — a bridge that closes the gap before preschool begins.
Here’s the story behind why: Cecilia Matson, a child development and parenting expert, has led groups for moms and little ones in the Boston area for more than 20 years. Over time, she noticed there was a need for something more than just a quick 45-minute class. Moms and caregivers needed a place where they could truly relax and enjoy quality time with their little ones — without feeling rushed, without stress, with a cup of coffee in hand, and with a sense of community.
Children needed more, too. Short, rushed classes didn’t give them time to meet their developmental needs. Toddlers thrive on routine, familiarity, and having the chance to socialize while feeling secure. At Galoop, children have time to connect, explore, and play, all while being supported by a caregiver who understands them. This nurturing environment is so beneficial for their brain development.
That’s how Galoop came to be — an ideal program for young children and their caregivers alike.
Galoop’s programs combine the structure of preschool with the warmth and comfort of home, providing a nurturing environment for children and their caregivers. Here’s what’s offered:
Morning Program
Designed for children ages 1-3.5 years, the morning program runs from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Families are welcome to arrive and leave whenever it’s convenient — there’s no “late” at Galoop! The curriculum is rooted in the latest child development research and encourages free play and exploration through arts and crafts, sensory tables, pretend play, and cozy reading nooks. Each morning also includes structured snack times, a dynamic bilingual (Spanish-English) circle time, and outdoor play in an exploratory playground.
Baby Spot
Designed for babies younger than 12 months, this program meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the late morning — after the morning nap. Baby Spot provides a calm, nurturing space where you and your baby can engage in baby-friendly activities, such as sensory play and bilingual circle time. It’s a great way for babies to safely explore new textures and sounds, while parents and caregivers connect with others navigating the early stages of parenthood.
Summer Camp
The summer camp for children ages 1-4 features exciting weekly themes like dinosaurs, transportation, and outer space! Camp activities are held entirely outdoors at the exploratory playground, allowing children to enjoy nature while engaging in fun, theme-based learning adventures. Each week offers new hands-on experiences, and children love the outdoor play and discovery!
Coffee Hours and Parenting Workshops
Galoop also offers dedicated family coffee hours and evening parenting workshops (sometimes with a glass of wine!), all included in the benefits you enjoy when you join.
Moms trust Galoop for the expert instructors — they are specialists in child development, behavior, and early parenting. Moms and caregivers have a sounding board to ask questions, brainstorm ideas, and receive expert support. Group discussions are enriching, and new friendships blossom naturally.
Parents also come for the high-quality curriculum and thoughtfully curated natural materials that create an enriching environment. The weekly curriculum, designed by them, is grounded in the latest child development research. Every Sunday, families receive an email outlining the upcoming week’s curriculum and a discussion topic for caregivers, complete with relevant articles and podcasts to enhance your parenting journey.
Moms also find Galoop to be a great resource for everything from finding reliable babysitters to last-minute ideas for celebrations or thoughtful gifts. Galoop is a place where families support each other, from playdates to weekend outings — many Galoop families make connections that extend well beyond the programs!
Moms often say that coming to Galoop feels like a mini vacation. Adults can relax, chat, and share a laugh, while children thrive in an environment that feels both familiar and fun. Kids look forward to their mornings at Galoop and often ask about it when they’re at home. Galoop mornings set a positive tone for the rest of the day, helping everything run more smoothly at home.
The Galoop Difference
At Galoop, we don’t believe in rushing through childhood. Some parents feel pressured to send their babies or toddlers to drop-off programs, fearing they’ll become “too attached” or won’t learn to be independent. But child development research tells a different story. The more secure a child feels in their attachment to a trusted caregiver, the more independent they become over time. Sooner doesn’t always mean better when it comes to early education and independence.
Galoop provides a nurturing environment where children develop independence at their own pace, with the support of a trusted caregiver present. Your child will have plenty of time to go to school in the years ahead — so why rush? When the time comes, they’ll be ready for preschool, excited and confident, with a positive association with a school setting already in place.
Galoop offers the time, space, and structure your child needs to explore and grow, while giving you the peace of mind and support you deserve. Galoop is about so much more than early education — it’s about fostering relationships, building confidence, and creating memories that both you and your child will cherish long after the preschool years.
If you’re looking for a place where your little one can thrive and where you can relax, have an expert sounding board, and form lifelong friendships, Galoop is the place for you!
Feel free to email Cecilia Matson, Galoop’s Director, with any questions!
