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TRANSPORTATION OPTIONSOak Crest Day Camp: Voted Best Camp in NJ
Explorers (1st & 2nd Graders) Summer Camp near 08502
At Oak Crest located in 08502, NJ, the camp program adapts to the campers’ age, with the Explorer program paralleling the Munchkin program. It emphasizes the development of skills in various athletic and creative pursuits, refinement of swimming abilities, and the cultivation of social and emotional intelligence. For first-grade campers, this includes an introduction to activities like the Climbing Tower, Zipline, Giant Swing, and participation in the traditional Oak Crest GAGA game. As campers progress to second grade, they enjoy a CHOICE period within their weekly schedule, granting them the opportunity to select activities that contribute to a dynamic and engaging camp experience.
Explorer Athletics
Located in 08502, NJ, our Summer Camp provides a unique sports program tailored for 1st and 2nd graders. We employ modified versions of traditional sports, utilizing scaled-down fields and age-appropriate equipment. This approach is designed to help campers achieve success while acquiring fundamental game skills. Our team of Athletic Specialists overseeing these activities is highly trained, dedicating a portion of each session to teaching a new skill, followed by gameplay that emphasizes the newly acquired skill. Oak Crest counselors actively engage in these activities alongside the campers, working in collaboration with the specialists to create and reinforce opportunities for success for our young participants.
Creative Arts
In the 08502 area of New Jersey, your child will have the opportunity to participate in a diverse array of artistic activities held in air-conditioned classrooms, led by experienced art instructors. Each week, campers have the chance to explore various disciplines such as Ceramics, Music, Mad Science, Cooking, Drama, Nature, Dance, Digital Photography, Jewelry Making, Computers, and more.
Additionally, all Explorer Girl groups participate in a dance routine as part of our annual Showcrest event, which is 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. It features professional sound and lighting, enhancing the overall experience for the campers and their families.
Learn to Swim
At Oak Crest, located in 08502, NJ, our Learn-to-Swim Program is a foundational element of the Oak Crest experience. Our aquatic facility is exceptional, boasting a state-of-the-art 12,000 square foot Aquatic Complex specifically designed for children aged 3 to 8. This Aquatic Complex offers a range of water depths from 1 to 6 feet, allowing us to initiate instruction in standing-depth water and progress to deeper levels as our young swimmers advance in their skills.
Every morning, our Explorer campers partake in a 40-minute swim lesson led by certified swim instructors, with group counselors providing additional support. In the afternoon, campers have the opportunity to enjoy free swim sessions. Notably, our swim lessons are skill-based rather than age-based, ensuring that we can effectively challenge and develop swimmers of all proficiency levels. Our instructors undergo annual training, and our swim techniques draw from a wealth of experience, incorporating not only the American Red Cross guidelines but also over 25 years of practical experience in instructing children in swimming.
Learn to Ride a Bicycle
Mastering the art of bicycle riding has become a significant childhood milestone, and Oak Crest, situated in 08502, NJ, provides an ideal setting for this journey through its recently 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, offering a comprehensive environment for learning and honing biking skills.
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 individualized attention, allowing novice riders to build the necessary confidence. Oak Crest takes care to provide appropriately sized bicycles and helmets to facilitate the learning process effectively.
Ropes Course and Low Ropes Course
In 08502, NJ, Oak Crest has developed a low ropes course with a dual objective: to enhance the gross motor skills of our 1st Grade Explorers and to equip them with the necessary abilities for navigating our Climbing Tower. Our 1st Grade Explorers participate in activities on the Low Ropes Course, which involve climbing, exploration, and swinging, all performed just inches above the ground. As they progress to 2nd Grade, Oak Crest campers are introduced to the Climbing Tower and Zipline for the first time. The Ropes Course is thoughtfully designed to allow campers to advance at their own pace. As they grow more comfortable and confident, they gain access to higher and more challenging elements.
To ensure safety, our ropes courses undergo rigorous safety inspections and certification by the construction company before each season. Furthermore, our certified ropes instructors, who guide the groups through all ropes courses, conduct daily safety checks to maintain a secure environment for our campers.
Social Development
In the Explorer Division at Oak Crest, located in 08502, NJ, a key emphasis is placed on nurturing collaborative skills within a group dynamic. Throughout the day, campers are encouraged to work together and build mutual support within their groups. The group structure, along with the active guidance of counselors, plays a pivotal role in fostering strong bonds and friendships among the campers. Counselors also provide instruction on respectful interactions with peers and effective communication with both fellow campers and staff members. Oak Crest offers a nurturing environment where children acquire the emotional and social skills that are fundamental for success in life.
