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TRANSPORTATION OPTIONSOak Crest Day Camp: Voted Best Camp in NJ
Explorers (1st & 2nd Graders) Summer Camp near 08854
At Oak Crest in 08854, New Jersey, the program adapts as campers grow older. The Explorer program, similar to the Munchkin program, prioritizes skill development in a variety of athletic and creative pursuits, while also improving swimming abilities and promoting social and emotional intelligence.
First-grade campers are introduced to exciting activities such as the Climbing Tower, Zipline, Giant Swing, and participate in the Oak Crest tradition of GAGA. As campers enter second grade, they gain the opportunity to choose activities during a designated CHOICE period in their weekly schedule, fostering a dynamic and engaging camp experience.
Explorer Athletics
In 08854, New Jersey, our first and second-grade campers participate in adapted versions of traditional sports. Using appropriately scaled-down fields and equipment tailored to their age, this approach empowers campers to experience success while acquiring essential gaming skills. Our Athletic Specialists, responsible for supervising these activities, are trained to allocate a portion of each session to teach a new skill, followed by gameplay that emphasizes the application of that skill. At Oak Crest, our counselors actively engage in these activities alongside the campers, collaborating with specialists to create and reinforce opportunities for success among our young participants.
Creative Arts
In 08854, New Jersey, your child can explore a wide variety of artistic activities led by experienced art instructors within air-conditioned classrooms. On a weekly basis, campers participate in sessions encompassing disciplines such as Ceramics, Music, Mad Science, Cooking, Drama, Nature, Dance, Digital Photography, Jewelry Making, Computers, and more.
Furthermore, all Explorer Girl groups actively participate in a Dance routine as an integral part of our annual Showcrest event, a significant production combining Dance and Drama. Showcrest is a substantial production, typically occurring during the sixth week of camp in the evening at a local venue, complete with professional sound and lighting.
Learn to Swim
At Oak Crest in 08854, New Jersey, our Learn-to-Swim Program serves as a fundamental cornerstone of the Oak Crest experience. Our aquatic facility is unrivaled, boasting a state-of-the-art 12,000 square foot Aquatic Complex exclusively designed for children aged 3 to 8. This Aquatic Complex accommodates varying water depths, ranging from 1 to 6 feet, allowing us to begin instruction in shallow water and progressively move to deeper levels as our young swimmers advance in their skills.
Every morning, our Explorer campers participate in a 40-minute swim lesson conducted by certified swim instructors, with group counselors providing additional support. In the afternoons, campers have the opportunity 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 undergo annual training, drawing from not only the American Red Cross curriculum but also over 25 years of practical experience in teaching children to swim.
Learn to Ride a Bicycle
Mastery of bicycle riding has become a significant childhood milestone, and Oak Crest, situated in 08854, New Jersey, provides an ideal environment for this achievement through its newly established Bicycle Village. This village comprises a 1/4-mile training course, a state-of-the-art pump track, and a mountain bike preparation trail. Cycling not only promotes independence among children but also imparts essential lessons in balance, posture control, coordination, and the development of motor skills. Our experienced instructors offer individualized attention, empowering novice riders to develop the necessary confidence. Oak Crest ensures the availability of appropriately sized bicycles and helmets throughout the learning process.
Ropes Course and Low Ropes Course
In 08854, New Jersey, Oak Crest has developed a low ropes course with a dual purpose: enhancing the gross motor skills of our 1st Grade Explorers and equipping them with the necessary abilities to navigate our Climbing Tower. Our 1st Grade Explorers actively participate in low ropes course activities, which include 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 individual pace, granting access to higher and more challenging elements as they gain comfort and confidence.
Each season, our ropes courses undergo thorough safety inspections and certification by the construction company. Additionally, certified ropes instructors, who also guide the groups through all ropes courses, conduct daily safety checks.
Social Development
Within the Explorer Division at Oak Crest in 08854, New Jersey, a primary emphasis is placed on cultivating collaborative skills in a group setting. Throughout the day, campers are engaged in activities that require teamwork and the development of mutual support. The group-oriented structure, combined with the active guidance of counselors, plays a pivotal role in fostering strong bonds and friendships among campers. In addition to promoting teamwork, counselors also provide instruction on respectful interaction with peers and effective communication with both fellow campers and staff. Oak Crest creates a nurturing environment where children acquire the emotional and social skills necessary for success in life.
