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TRANSPORTATION OPTIONSOak Crest Day Camp: Voted Best Camp in NJ
Explorers (1st & 2nd Graders) Summer Camp near 07059
At Oak Crest in 07059, NJ, our camp program adapts to the age of the campers. The Explorer program, similar to the Munchkin program, prioritizes skill development in various athletic and creative activities, refining swimming abilities, and nurturing social and emotional intelligence. First-grade campers are introduced to exciting features like the Climbing Tower, Zipline, Giant Swing, and our Oak Crest tradition of GAGA. As they progress into second grade, campers can enjoy a CHOICE period in their schedule, enabling them to select activities each week, creating a dynamic and engaging camp experience.
Explorer Athletics
In 07059, NJ, our Summer Camp offers a unique approach for 1st and 2nd graders, where they actively participate in modified versions of traditional sports. Using scaled-down fields and courts with age-appropriate equipment, this approach fosters success while helping campers develop fundamental game skills. Our Athletic Specialists, well-versed in this approach, allocate a portion of each session to teach a new skill, followed by gameplay that emphasizes the application of that skill. Oak Crest counselors actively engage in these activities alongside the campers, working in collaboration with our specialists to create and reinforce opportunities for success among our young participants.
Creative Arts
In 07059, NJ, your child will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a diverse array of artistic activities conducted in comfortable, air-conditioned classrooms, led by experienced art instructors. Each week, campers enjoy sessions in a wide range of disciplines, including Ceramics, Music, Mad Science, Cooking, Drama, Nature, Dance, Digital Photography, Jewelry Making, Computers, and more.
Furthermore, all Explorer Girl groups participate in a Dance routine as part of our annual Showcrest, a significant Dance and Drama Production. Showcrest is an elaborate production, typically held during the sixth week of camp in the evening at a local venue, complete with professional sound and lighting, providing campers with a memorable performance experience.
Learn to Swim
At Oak Crest in 07059, NJ, our Learn-to-Swim Program is a fundamental aspect of the Oak Crest experience. Our aquatic facility is exceptional, boasting a state-of-the-art 12,000 square foot Aquatic Complex specifically tailored for children aged 3 to 8 years old. This complex offers water depths ranging from 1 to 6 feet, allowing us to initiate instruction in shallow water and progress to deeper levels as our young swimmers develop their skills.
Each morning, our Explorers participate in a 40-minute swim lesson led by certified swim instructors, with group counselors providing support. In the afternoon, the groups enjoy free swim sessions. Our swim lessons are skill-based rather than age-based, enabling us to challenge swimmers of all proficiency levels. Our instructors undergo annual training, and our swim techniques are informed not only by the American Red Cross but also by over 25 years of practical experience in teaching children to swim.
Learn to Ride a Bicycle
At Oak Crest in 07059, NJ, the acquisition of bicycle riding skills represents a significant childhood milestone, and we provide an ideal setting for this journey through our newly established Bicycle Village. This village boasts a 1/4-mile training course, a state-of-the-art pump track, and a mountain bike preparation trail. Cycling not only promotes independence in children but also instills valuable lessons in balance, posture control, coordination, and the development of motor skills.
Our experienced instructors offer personalized attention, empowering novice riders to build the confidence needed to excel. Oak Crest ensures the availability of appropriately sized bikes and helmets throughout the learning process, ensuring a safe and enriching experience for your child.
Ropes Course and Low Ropes Course
In 07059, NJ, Oak Crest has developed a low ropes course with a dual purpose: to enhance the gross motor skills of our 1st Grade Explorers and to equip them with the essential skills for navigating our Climbing Tower. The 1st Grade Explorers actively participate in activities on the Low Ropes Course, which include climbing, exploration, and swinging, all conducted just inches above the ground. Upon progressing to 2nd Grade, Oak Crest campers have the opportunity to experience the Climbing Tower and Zipline for the first time. The Ropes Course is designed to allow campers to advance at their own pace. As they become more comfortable and confident, they gain access to higher and more advanced elements.
Prior to each season, our ropes courses undergo thorough safety inspections and certification by the company that constructed them. Furthermore, certified ropes instructors, who also guide the groups through all ropes courses, perform daily safety checks to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for our campers.
Social Development
At Oak Crest in 07059, NJ, within the Explorer Division, we prioritize the development of collaborative skills within a group setting. Throughout the day, our campers engage in activities that encourage teamwork and mutual support. The group structure, combined with the active participation of our counselors, plays a pivotal role in fostering strong bonds and friendships among our campers. Our counselors also guide campers in practicing respectful interactions with their peers and effective communication with both their fellow campers and our staff. Oak Crest provides a nurturing environment where children acquire the emotional and social skills necessary for success in life.
