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Explorers (1st & 2nd Graders) Summer Camp near 08869
Oak Crest in 08869, NJ, offers a program that adapts as campers age. The Explorer program, similar to the Munchkin program, emphasizes skill development in a variety of athletic and creative activities, enhances swimming abilities, and fosters social and emotional intelligence.
In the first grade, campers are introduced to exciting elements such as the Climbing Tower, Zipline, Giant Swing, and the Oak Crest tradition of GAGA. As they enter second grade, campers benefit from a CHOICE period in their schedule, enabling them to choose activities each week, creating a dynamic and engaging camp experience.
Explorer Athletics
Located in 08869, NJ, our Summer Camp provides a unique sports experience for 1st and 2nd graders. We offer modified versions of traditional sports, featuring scaled-down fields and courts with age-appropriate equipment. This approach is designed to help campers achieve success while mastering fundamental game skills.
Our dedicated Athletic Specialists lead these activities, incorporating skill instruction into each session, followed by gameplay that reinforces the newly acquired skills. Oak Crest counselors actively engage with campers, working closely with specialists to create and reinforce opportunities for success among our young participants.
Creative Arts
Located in 08869, NJ, our Summer Camp offers your child a rich array of artistic experiences, led by experienced art teachers in air-conditioned classrooms. Each week, campers enjoy sessions in diverse 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 part of our annual Showcrest event, a significant Dance and Drama Production. Showcrest is a substantial production typically scheduled during the sixth week of camp, held in the evening at a local venue, complete with professional sound and lighting to create a memorable experience.
Learn to Swim
At Oak Crest in 08869, NJ, our Learn-to-Swim Program is a cornerstone of the Oak Crest experience. Our top-notch aquatic facility, a state-of-the-art 12,000 square foot Aquatic Complex, is tailored to the needs of our 3-8-year-old campers. The complex offers water depths ranging from 1 to 6 feet, allowing us to begin instruction in shallow water and progress to deeper levels as our swimmers develop 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, campers return for free swim sessions. Our swim lessons are skill-based rather than age-based, ensuring that we challenge swimmers of all proficiency levels. Our instructors receive annual training and incorporate techniques from both the American Red Cross and over 25 years of practical experience in teaching children to swim.
Learn to Ride a Bicycle
At Oak Crest in 08869, NJ, learning to ride a bicycle is a significant childhood milestone, and our newly established Bicycle Village provides an ideal environment 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 promotes independence in children but also instills valuable lessons in balance, posture control, coordination, and the development of motor skills. Our experienced instructors offer personalized guidance, empowering novice bikers to build 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 08869, NJ, Oak Crest has recently introduced a low ropes course designed to serve a dual purpose for our 1st Grade Explorers. This course aims to enhance their gross motor skills and prepare them for navigating our Climbing Tower. Our 1st Grade Explorers engage in a variety of activities on the Low Ropes Course, including climbing, exploration, and swinging, all conducted just inches above the ground. As they progress 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 advance at their own pace. With increasing comfort and confidence, they gain access to higher and more advanced elements.
Prior to each season, our ropes courses undergo rigorous safety inspections and certification by the company responsible for their construction. Additionally, 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
Within the Explorer Division at Oak Crest in 08869, NJ, there is a dedicated emphasis on nurturing collaborative skills within a group setting. Throughout the day, campers engage in collective tasks, fostering mutual support and teamwork. The group structure, complemented by the active participation of counselors, plays a pivotal role in cultivating strong bonds and lasting friendships. Counselors also guide campers in respectful interactions with their peers and effective communication with both their fellow campers and staff members. Oak Crest provides a nurturing environment where children acquire the emotional and social skills that are vital for success in life.
