Located at Oak Crest in 07091, New Jersey, our program is designed to adapt and grow with your child’s age. The Explorer program, similar to the Munchkin program, emphasizes skill development in various athletic and creative pursuits, enhances swimming abilities, and promotes social and emotional intelligence.
For first-grade campers, we introduce them to exciting experiences like the Climbing Tower, Zipline, Giant Swing, and the cherished Oak Crest tradition of GAGA. As campers progress to second grade, they have the opportunity to customize their weekly activities through a CHOICE period, creating a dynamic and engaging camp experience.
In 07091, New Jersey, our Summer Camp tailors sports activities for 1st and 2nd graders, offering modified versions on appropriately scaled-down fields and courts with age-appropriate equipment. This approach is designed to foster success while helping campers acquire fundamental game skills.
Our Athletic Specialists, who oversee these activities, are trained to allocate a portion of each session to instructing a new skill, followed by gameplay that emphasizes the development of that skill. Additionally, Oak Crest counselors actively engage in these activities alongside campers, working in collaboration with our specialists to create and reinforce success opportunities for our young participants.
In 07091, New Jersey, your child will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a diverse array of artistic activities within the comfort of air-conditioned classrooms, led by experienced art instructors. Each week, campers participate in sessions covering 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 are involved in a dance routine as a integral part of our annual Showcrest event, a significant Dance and Drama Production. Showcrest is a substantial production, typically held during the sixth week of camp in the evening at a local venue, complete with professional sound and lighting to showcase the talents of our young participants.
At Oak Crest in 07091, New Jersey, our Learn-to-Swim Program is a cornerstone of the Oak Crest experience. Our aquatic facility is truly exceptional, boasting a state-of-the-art 12,000 square foot Aquatic Complex specially designed for children aged 3 to 8 years old. This Aquatic Complex offers varying water depths from 1 to 6 feet, allowing us to initiate instruction in shallow water and progress to deeper levels as our young swimmers advance in their skills.
Each morning, our Explorers participate in a 40-minute swim lesson led by certified swim instructors, with group counselors providing additional support. In the afternoon, the groups return for free swim sessions. Our swim lessons are skill-based rather than age-based, enabling us to challenge swimmers of all proficiency levels. Our instructors receive annual training, drawing from the expertise of the American Red Cross and over 25 years of practical experience in teaching children to swim.
At Oak Crest, situated in 07091, New Jersey, we recognize that mastering the skill of riding a bicycle is a significant childhood milestone. To facilitate this journey, we have established a dedicated Bicycle Village, providing an ideal environment for young riders. Our Bicycle Village features 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 imparts valuable lessons in balance, posture control, coordination, and the development of motor skills. Our experienced instructors offer personalized attention, ensuring that novice bikers can build the confidence needed to succeed. Oak Crest is committed to providing appropriately sized bikes and helmets to support the learning process.
In 07091, New Jersey, Oak Crest has introduced a low ropes course with a dual purpose: developing the gross motor skills of our 1st Grade Explorers and equipping them with the necessary skills for navigating our Climbing Tower. Our 1st Grade Explorers engage in a variety of activities on the Low Ropes Course, involving climbing, exploration, and swinging, all conducted just inches above the ground. Upon advancing to 2nd Grade, Oak Crest campers have the opportunity to experience the Climbing Tower and Zipline for the first time. The Ropes Course is thoughtfully designed to allow campers to progress at their own pace. As they gain comfort and confidence, 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 responsible for their construction. Additionally, our certified ropes instructors, who lead the groups through all ropes courses, conduct daily safety checks to ensure the well-being of our campers.
Within the Explorer Division at Oak Crest in 07091, New Jersey, there is a deliberate emphasis on nurturing collaborative skills within a group dynamic. Throughout the day, our campers are given opportunities to engage in collective efforts and cultivate mutual support among their peers. This group-oriented structure, coupled with the active involvement of our counselors, plays a pivotal role in fostering strong bonds and lasting friendships among the children.
Our dedicated counselors not only facilitate group activities but also provide guidance to campers on respectful interaction with others and effective communication, both with their peers and the staff. At Oak Crest, we strive to create a nurturing environment where children can acquire the emotional and social skills that are essential for success in life.
