Oak Crest Day Camp: Voted Best Camp in NJ
Limited Spots Left for Summer 2024
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Transportation
Oak Crest provides Bus Transportation to dozens of nearby towns.
Transportation
Oak Crest provides Bus Transportation to dozens of nearby towns.
New to Camp?
Learn more about how we tailor our program for each age group.
New to Camp?
Learn more about how we tailor our program for each age group.
Explorers (1st & 2nd Graders) Summer Camp near 08837
In 08837, NJ, specifically at Oak Crest, the camp program is structured to adapt to the age of the campers it serves. The Explorer program, which parallels the Munchkin program, is designed to facilitate skill development in various athletic and creative pursuits, improve swimming abilities, and promote social and emotional intelligence.
For first-grade campers, the program introduces activities such as the Climbing Tower, Zipline, Giant Swing, and the Oak Crest tradition of GAGA. As campers transition into second grade, they have the opportunity to participate in a CHOICE period within their weekly schedule, allowing them to select activities that cater to their interests. This approach enhances the overall camp experience, making it more dynamic and engaging.
Explorer Athletics
In the 08837 area of New Jersey, our Summer Camp tailors its sports programs for 1st and 2nd graders by implementing modified versions of traditional sports. We utilize scaled-down fields and courts, along with age-appropriate equipment, to provide an environment where campers can excel while learning essential game skills.
Our team of Athletic Specialists is well-trained in dedicating a portion of each session to instructing new skills, followed by gameplay that emphasizes the newly acquired skills. Furthermore, Oak Crest counselors actively engage in these activities alongside the campers, working closely with the specialists to create and reinforce opportunities for success among our young participants.
Creative Arts
Located in the 08837 area of New Jersey, our camp offers a wide array of artistic experiences for your child. These sessions are conducted in air-conditioned classrooms by seasoned art instructors. Each week, campers have the opportunity to participate in sessions spanning various disciplines, including Ceramics, Music, Mad Science, Cooking, Drama, Nature, Dance, Digital Photography, Jewelry Making, Computers, and more.
Additionally, all Explorer Girl groups are involved in a Dance routine as a pivotal component of our annual event called “Showcrest,” which is a significant Dance and Drama Production. Showcrest is a substantial production typically held during the sixth week of camp, hosted in the evening at a local venue and featuring professional-grade sound and lighting.
Learn to Swim
At Oak Crest, located in 08837, NJ, our Learn-to-Swim Program plays a pivotal role in enhancing the Oak Crest experience. Our aquatic facility is exceptional, boasting a state-of-the-art 12,000 square foot Aquatic Complex meticulously designed for children aged 3 to 8. This Aquatic Complex offers varying water depths ranging from 1 to 6 feet, which allows us to initiate swimming instruction in shallow water and progress to deeper levels as our young swimmers develop their skills.
Each morning, our Explorer campers partake in a 40-minute swim lesson led by certified swim instructors, with additional support provided by group counselors. In the afternoon, campers have the opportunity to enjoy free swim sessions. Notably, our swim lessons are skill-based rather than age-based, enabling us to challenge and cater to swimmers of all proficiency levels. Our instructors undergo annual training, and our teaching techniques draw from not only the American Red Cross but also more than 25 years of practical experience in instructing children in swimming.
Learn to Ride a Bicycle
Mastering the skill of bicycle riding represents a significant childhood milestone, and Oak Crest, situated in 08837, NJ, provides an ideal environment for this achievement through its recently established Bicycle Village. This village encompasses a 1/4-mile training course, a state-of-the-art pump track, and a mountain bike preparation trail. Beyond promoting independence, cycling also instills valuable lessons in children, including balance, posture control, coordination, and the development of motor skills.
Our experienced instructors offer individualized attention, empowering novice riders to cultivate the confidence required for cycling. At Oak Crest, we ensure the availability of appropriately sized bikes and helmets throughout the learning process to enhance safety and the overall learning experience.
Ropes Course and Low Ropes Course
In 08837, NJ, Oak Crest has developed a low ropes course designed to serve a dual purpose: enhancing the gross motor skills of our 1st Grade Explorers and equipping them with the essential abilities to tackle our Climbing Tower. The 1st Grade Explorers actively participate in activities on the Low Ropes Course, which encompass climbing, exploration, and swinging, all taking place just inches above the ground. Upon advancing to the 2nd Grade level, Oak Crest campers have the opportunity to experience the Climbing Tower and Zipline for the first time. Importantly, the Ropes Course is meticulously designed to allow campers to progress at their individual pace. As they grow more comfortable and confident, they gain access to higher and more advanced elements.
Before the start of each season, our ropes courses undergo thorough safety inspections and receive certification from the company responsible for their construction. Additionally, our certified ropes instructors, who also guide the groups through all ropes courses, conduct daily safety checks to ensure the well-being of our campers.
Social Development
In the Explorer Division at Oak Crest in 08837, NJ, there is a deliberate emphasis on nurturing collaborative skills within a group dynamic. Throughout the day, campers are encouraged to engage in collective activities, fostering mutual support and teamwork. The structured group environment, along with the active participation of counselors, plays a pivotal role in cultivating strong bonds and lasting friendships among campers. Furthermore, our counselors provide guidance on respectful interaction with peers and effective communication with both peers and staff members. Oak Crest is committed to creating a nurturing environment where children can acquire the emotional and social skills that are fundamental for success in their future endeavors.