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Explorers (1st & 2nd Graders) Summer Camp near Skillman
At Oak Crest in Skillman, NJ, our camp program is tailored to the age and development of the campers. The Explorer program, similar to the Munchkin program, emphasizes skill development in a variety of athletic and creative pursuits. It also places an emphasis on improving swimming abilities and nurturing social and emotional intelligence.
First-grade campers are introduced to exciting activities such as the Climbing Tower, Zipline, Giant Swing, and they participate in the Oak Crest tradition of GAGA. As they progress into second grade, campers have the opportunity to enjoy a CHOICE period in their schedule, enabling them to select different activities each week. This approach fosters a dynamic and engaging camp experience.
Explorer Athletics
In Skillman, NJ, our 1st and 2nd graders participate in adapted versions of traditional sports. These activities take place on appropriately sized fields and courts with equipment designed for their age group. This approach is aimed at enabling campers to experience success while acquiring fundamental game skills.
Our dedicated Athletic Specialists, who oversee these activities, are trained to allocate a portion of each session to teach a new skill, followed by gameplay that emphasizes the newly acquired skill. In addition, Oak Crest counselors actively engage in these activities alongside the campers, working in collaboration with specialists to create and reinforce opportunities for success among our young participants.
Creative Arts
In Skillman, NJ, your child will have access to a wide array of artistic activities that are conducted in air-conditioned classrooms and led by experienced art instructors. Each week, campers participate in sessions covering various disciplines such as 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 event, which is a significant Dance and Drama Production. Showcrest is a substantial production that typically occurs during the sixth week of camp in the evening at a local venue. It features professional sound and lighting, making it a remarkable showcase for our campers’ talents.
Learn to Swim
At Oak Crest in Skillman, NJ, our Learn-to-Swim Program is a cornerstone of the Oak Crest experience. We are proud to offer an exceptional aquatic facility, boasting a state-of-the-art 12,000 square foot Aquatic Complex specifically designed for children aged 3-8. This Aquatic Complex features varying water depths ranging from 1 to 6 feet, allowing us to initiate swim instruction in shallow water and progress to deeper areas as our young swimmers develop their skills.
Every morning, our Explorer campers participate in a 40-minute swim lesson led by certified swim instructors, with group counselors providing additional support. In the afternoon, campers have the opportunity to engage in free swim sessions. Our swim lessons are structured based on skill levels rather than age, ensuring that we can appropriately challenge swimmers of all proficiency levels. Our instructors undergo annual training, drawing from not only the American Red Cross guidelines but also more than 25 years of practical experience in teaching children to swim.
Learn to Ride a Bicycle
Learning to ride a bicycle has become a pivotal childhood achievement, and at Oak Crest, situated in Skillman, NJ, we provide an optimal environment for this skill acquisition through our recently established Bicycle Village. This dedicated area comprises a 1/4-mile training course, a cutting-edge pump track, and a trail designed for mountain bike preparation. Cycling not only cultivates independence in children but also instills valuable lessons in balance, posture control, coordination, and the development of essential motor skills.
Our experienced instructors offer individualized guidance, helping novice riders build the necessary confidence. Oak Crest ensures the availability of appropriately sized bicycles and helmets to facilitate the learning process.
Ropes Course and Low Ropes Course
In Skillman, NJ, Oak Crest has established a low ropes course with a dual purpose: to enhance the gross motor skills of our 1st Grade Explorers and prepare them for the challenges of our Climbing Tower. Our 1st Grade Explorers actively 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 design of the Ropes Course allows campers to advance at their own pace, gradually gaining comfort and confidence while gaining access to higher and more advanced elements.
Prior to each season, our ropes courses undergo thorough safety inspections and receive certification from the company responsible for their construction. Furthermore, certified ropes instructors, who lead the groups through all ropes courses, conduct daily safety checks to ensure the well-being of our campers.
Social Development
In the Explorer Division of Oak Crest in Skillman, NJ, we prioritize the development of collaborative skills within a group setting. Throughout the day, our campers engage in various activities that encourage teamwork and mutual support. The group dynamics, along with the active participation of counselors, are instrumental in fostering strong bonds and friendships among the campers.
Our counselors also guide campers in practicing respectful interaction with their peers and effective communication with both fellow campers and staff members. Oak Crest creates a nurturing environment where children can acquire the emotional and social skills that are fundamental for success in life.
