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TRANSPORTATION OPTIONSOak Crest Day Camp: Voted Best Camp in NJ
Explorers (1st & 2nd Graders) Summer Camp near 08880
At Oak Crest in 08880, NJ, our program adapts to the developmental stages of our campers. The Explorer program, mirroring the Munchkin program, places a strong emphasis on honing skills in a variety of athletic and creative pursuits, improving swimming abilities, and nurturing social and emotional intelligence.
For first-grade campers, we introduce exciting elements such as the Climbing Tower, Zipline, Giant Swing, and the cherished Oak Crest tradition of GAGA. As they progress into the second grade, campers benefit from a CHOICE period within their schedules, enabling them to select activities on a weekly basis. This approach fosters a dynamic and engaging camp experience, tailored to their evolving interests and preferences.
Explorer Athletics
In 08880, NJ, our first and second graders participate in specially adapted versions of traditional sports. Using scaled-down fields and courts and age-appropriate equipment, this approach allows campers to experience success while developing fundamental game skills. Our Athletic Specialists, who oversee these activities, are trained to allocate a portion of each session for teaching a new skill, followed by gameplay that reinforces that skill.
Furthermore, Oak Crest counselors actively engage in these activities alongside our campers, collaborating with the specialists to create and reinforce opportunities for success among our young participants.
Creative Arts
In 08880, NJ, your child will have access to a rich array of artistic activities, led by experienced art teachers in air-conditioned classrooms. Weekly sessions include 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 an integral part of our annual Showcrest, 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 to create a memorable experience for all involved.
Learn to Swim
At Oak Crest in 08880, NJ, our Learn-to-Swim Program is a cornerstone of the Oak Crest experience. Our aquatic facility is truly exceptional, featuring a state-of-the-art 12,000 square foot Aquatic Complex purposefully designed for children aged 3-8. This complex offers water depths ranging from 1 to 6 feet, allowing us to initiate instruction in shallow water and progressively move to deeper levels as our swimmers advance in their skills.
Each morning, our Explorer campers participate in a 40-minute swim lesson conducted by certified swim instructors, with group counselors offering assistance. 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 at all proficiency levels. Our instructors undergo annual training, and our swim techniques are drawn not only from the American Red Cross but also from over 25 years of practical experience in teaching children to swim.
Learn to Ride a Bicycle
At Oak Crest in 08880, NJ, we understand that mastering the skill of riding a bicycle is a significant childhood milestone. To support this journey, we have introduced our newly established Bicycle Village, offering 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 goes beyond just a recreational activity; it fosters independence in children while imparting crucial lessons in balance, posture control, coordination, and the development of motor skills. Our experienced instructors provide personalized attention, ensuring that novice bikers build the confidence needed to succeed. Oak Crest also ensures that appropriately sized bikes and helmets are available for the learning process, prioritizing safety and skill development.
Ropes Course and Low Ropes Course
In 08880, NJ, Oak Crest has recently introduced a low ropes course designed to serve a dual purpose. This course is aimed at developing the gross motor skills of our 1st Grade Explorers while also equipping them with the essential skills needed to navigate our Climbing Tower.
Our 1st Grade Explorers actively engage in a series of activities on the Low Ropes Course, 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 own pace, ensuring that as they gain comfort and confidence, they gain access to higher and more advanced elements.
For safety, our ropes courses undergo thorough inspections and certification by the company responsible for their construction before each season. Additionally, certified ropes instructors, who also lead the groups through all ropes courses, conduct daily safety checks, ensuring the well-being of our campers at all times.
Social Development
Within Oak Crest’s Explorer Division in 08880, NJ, there is a deliberate emphasis on nurturing collaborative skills within a group setting. Throughout the day, our campers are challenged to work together and build mutual support within their group. This structured group dynamic, combined with the active guidance of our counselors, plays a pivotal role in fostering strong bonds and lasting friendships among our campers.
Our counselors also take on the role of instructing campers in respectful interactions with their peers and effective communication with both fellow campers and staff. At Oak Crest, we provide a nurturing environment where children have the opportunity to acquire the emotional and social skills that are essential for success in life.
