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Explorers (1st & 2nd Graders) Summer Camp near 08543
At Oak Crest in 08543, NJ, our Summer Camp program is designed to evolve with the campers’ age. The Explorer program, similar to the Munchkin program, prioritizes the development of skills in various athletic and creative pursuits, as well as the refinement of swimming abilities and the cultivation of social and emotional intelligence.
For first-grade campers, we introduce them to exciting experiences like the Climbing Tower, Zipline, Giant Swing, and our cherished Oak Crest tradition of GAGA. As campers progress into second grade, they gain the opportunity to participate in a CHOICE period in their schedule. This empowers them to select activities each week, fostering a dynamic and engaging camp experience.
Explorer Athletics
Located in 08543, NJ, our Summer Camp offers a unique approach for 1st and 2nd graders in the realm of sports. We provide modified versions of traditional sports, using scaled-down fields and age-appropriate equipment. This approach is designed to empower campers to achieve success while building fundamental game skills.
Our Athletic Specialists are dedicated to this approach, ensuring that each session includes instruction on a new skill, followed by gameplay that emphasizes that skill. In addition, Oak Crest counselors actively engage in these activities alongside the campers, collaborating with specialists to create and reinforce opportunities for success for our young participants.
Creative Arts
Located in 08543, NJ, our Summer Camp offers your child a rich array of artistic activities led by experienced art teachers in air-conditioned classrooms. Each week, campers participate in sessions spanning various 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 part of our annual Showcrest, a significant Dance and Drama Production. Showcrest is an elaborate production that typically occurs during the sixth week of camp in the evening at a local venue. It boasts professional sound and lighting for a truly remarkable experience.
Learn to Swim
At Oak Crest in 08543, NJ, our Learn-to-Swim Program is a cornerstone of the Oak Crest experience. Our aquatic facility sets the standard, boasting a state-of-the-art 12,000 square foot Aquatic Complex tailored to the needs of our 3-8 year-olds. This complex offers water depths ranging from 1 to 6 feet, allowing us to begin instruction in standing-depth water and progress to deeper levels as our 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 support. In the afternoon, the groups return for free swim sessions. Our swim lessons are skill-based rather than age-based, ensuring that we can challenge swimmers of all proficiency levels. Our instructors undergo annual training, and our swim techniques are rooted in not only the American Red Cross but also more than 25 years of practical experience in teaching children to swim.
Learn to Ride a Bicycle
At Oak Crest, situated in 08543, NJ, we recognize that mastering the art of riding a bicycle is a significant childhood milestone. To facilitate this journey, we’ve created the Bicycle Village, an ideal setting for this endeavor. The village boasts a 1/4-mile training course, a state-of-the-art pump track, and a mountain bike preparation trail. Cycling not only nurtures 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 necessary confidence. Oak Crest takes care of providing appropriately sized bikes and helmets to support the learning process.
Ropes Course and Low Ropes Course
In 08543, NJ, Oak Crest has introduced 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 required for navigating our Climbing Tower. Our 1st Grade Explorers participate in activities on the Low Ropes Course, which involve 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 thoughtfully designed to allow campers to progress at their own pace. As they become more comfortable and confident, they gain access to higher and more challenging 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, conduct daily safety checks to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for our campers.
Social Development
Within the Explorer Division at Oak Crest in 08543, NJ, our primary emphasis is on nurturing collaborative skills within a group dynamic. Throughout the day, our campers are engaged in collective tasks, encouraging teamwork and mutual support. The group structure, along with the active participation of our counselors, plays a pivotal role in fostering strong bonds and meaningful friendships. Our counselors also provide guidance to campers on respectful interactions with others and effective communication with both peers and staff. Oak Crest creates a nurturing environment where children can develop the emotional and social skills that are essential for success in life.
