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TRANSPORTATION OPTIONSOak Crest Day Camp: Voted Best Camp in NJ
Explorers (1st & 2nd Graders) Summer Camp near 07931
At Oak Crest in 07931, New Jersey, the camp program adapts to the campers’ age groups. The Explorer program, similar to the Munchkin program, emphasizes skill development in a variety of athletic and creative pursuits, enhancing swimming abilities, and fostering social and emotional intelligence.
For first-grade campers, the program introduces activities like the Climbing Tower, Zipline, Giant Swing, and the Oak Crest tradition of GAGA. As campers progress to second grade, they have the opportunity to participate in a CHOICE period within their weekly schedule, enabling them to select activities that cater to their interests, resulting in a dynamic and engaging camp experience.
Explorer Athletics
Creative Arts
In 07931, New Jersey, children have the chance to participate in a broad spectrum of artistic activities led by experienced art teachers in air-conditioned classrooms. Each week, campers are exposed to sessions in various disciplines such as Ceramics, Music, Mad Science, Cooking, Drama, Nature, Dance, Digital Photography, Jewelry Making, Computers, and more.
Additionally, all the Explorer Girl groups are involved in a dance routine as part of our annual Showcrest event, a significant Dance and Drama Production. Showcrest is an extensive production typically held during the sixth week of camp in the evening at a local venue, featuring professional sound and lighting arrangements.
Learn to Swim
At Oak Crest in 07931, New Jersey, our Learn-to-Swim Program is a vital aspect of the Oak Crest experience. We take pride in our exceptional aquatic facility, boasting a state-of-the-art 12,000 square foot Aquatic Complex exclusively designed for children aged 3 to 8. This Aquatic Complex offers a range of water depths from 1 to 6 feet, allowing us to begin instruction in shallow water and progressively move to deeper areas as our young swimmers advance their skills.
Every morning, our Explorer campers engage in a 40-minute swim lesson led by certified swim instructors, with group counselors providing additional support. In the afternoon, the groups have the opportunity for free swim sessions. Our swim lessons prioritize skill levels rather than age, ensuring that we can appropriately challenge swimmers of all proficiencies. Our instructors undergo annual training, and our teaching techniques are informed by both the American Red Cross guidelines and over 25 years of practical experience in instructing children in swimming.
Learn to Ride a Bicycle
Mastering the skill of bicycle riding has become a significant childhood milestone, and at Oak Crest, located in 07931, New Jersey, we provide an ideal setting for this endeavor 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 encourages 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, allowing novice riders to develop the necessary confidence. Oak Crest ensures the availability of appropriately sized bikes and helmets to facilitate the learning process.
Ropes Course and Low Ropes Course
In 07931, New Jersey, Oak Crest has established a low ropes course with a dual purpose: to enhance the gross motor skills of our 1st Grade Explorers and prepare them for navigating our Climbing Tower. First-grade Explorers 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 campers become more comfortable and confident, they gain access to higher and more challenging elements.
To ensure safety, our ropes courses undergo thorough inspections and certification by the company responsible for their construction prior to each season. Additionally, our certified ropes instructors, who also lead the groups through all ropes courses, conduct daily safety checks.
Social Development
In the Explorer Division at Oak Crest in 07931, New Jersey, there is a strong emphasis on nurturing collaborative skills within a group setting. Throughout the day, the campers are encouraged to work together and build mutual support. This group-oriented structure, along with the active participation of counselors, plays a pivotal role in fostering strong bonds and friendships among the campers. Counselors also provide guidance on respectful interactions with peers and effective communication with both fellow campers and staff members. Oak Crest offers a nurturing environment where children can develop the emotional and social skills that are vital for success in life.
