In 08812, New Jersey, Oak Crest offers both a 5 full-day program and a 3 full-day program for young campers. Within our Munchkin Division, we maintain an exceptionally low camper-to-staff ratio, typically ranging from 10 to 12 campers for every 3 to 4 staff members. Additionally, each activity is supervised by a Munchkin Specialist, specially selected and trained to meet the specific needs of children aged 3, 4, and 5.
The Munchkin Program is designed with a threefold approach: first, to enhance gross and fine motor skills through engaging athletic and creative activities; second, to teach swimming skills; and third, to promote social development among our young participants.
At Oak Crest, we provide modified versions of various sports activities tailored to the developmental stage of our youngest campers. Our offerings include mini-soccer, mini-basketball, t-ball, and gymnastics, all adapted to ensure that even the youngest participants can experience success. Our athletic specialists are specifically trained to work with children aged 3, 4, and 5, guiding them through the learning process of fundamental sports skills in an age-appropriate and engaging manner. Your child will have the opportunity to explore and enjoy these sports activities while fostering their physical development.
Nestled in the 08812 zip code of New Jersey, Oak Crest’s Creative Arts Center serves as an exceptional hub for fostering artistic expression. Here, your child will have the unique opportunity to engage in a diverse array of artistic activities within well-appointed, air-conditioned classrooms, all under the guidance of experienced art instructors.
Each week, our campers actively participate in a wide range of creative endeavors, including ceramics, music, cooking, drama, nature exploration, dance, digital photography, jewelry making, computers, and more. As an enriching addition to this artistic journey, each Munchkin group plays a vital role in our annual Showcrest, a grand dance and drama production. This event, held during the 6th week of camp, unfolds in the evening at a local venue, featuring professional-grade sound and lighting, creating a truly remarkable spectacle that is far from modest in scale.
Climbing and ropes courses are fundamental aspects of the Summer Camp experience at Oak Crest’s location in 08812, NJ. We have established a low ropes course at our facility with dual objectives: facilitating the development of gross motor skills among our young campers and equipping them with the necessary skills to navigate our Climbing Tower. Engaging in the Low Ropes Course, our young participants have the opportunity to climb, explore, and swing, all while being just inches above the ground.
To ensure the highest level of safety, our ropes courses undergo rigorous inspection and certification by the company responsible for their construction at the start of each season. Moreover, our certified ropes instructors, who oversee the groups during all ropes courses, conduct daily checks to maintain a secure and controlled environment for the campers.
Swimming transcends being a mere life skill; it stands as a vital proficiency best acquired at our newly established, state-of-the-art 12,000 square foot Aquatic Complex within the 08812, NJ location of Oak Crest. Our unwavering dedication to excellence is evident in our annual training of instructors, which draws from both American Red Cross guidelines and over 25 years of practical experience in teaching children to swim. We confidently assure you that your child will achieve mastery in swimming at Oak Crest.
For our novice swimmers, our cutting-edge Aquatic Facility boasts two shallow pools, designed to provide even the youngest campers with a comfortable standing depth. This significantly enhances their comfort and initial progress in the water. Each morning, our campers participate in a 40-minute swim lesson led by a certified swim instructor, with the support of group counselors. In the afternoons, they return to the Aquatic Complex for 40 minutes of free swim, fostering camaraderie with both fellow campers and group counselors.
The most captivating facet of the camp experience centers on the development of children’s proficiency in managing group dynamics, leading to increased confidence and independence. As campers transition between diverse activities, they actively participate in the cultivation of friendships, collaborative endeavors, sharing, taking turns, and acquiring the ability to interact respectfully with both peers and staff. Our devoted staff plays a pivotal role in empowering Munchkin campers to express themselves verbally and guides them in effective communication. Oak Crest fosters a nurturing environment where children acquire the emotional and social skills necessary for success in life.
In order to cater to the specific nutritional needs of our preschool campers, Munchkins have a dedicated dining arrangement separate from the rest of the camp, enjoying the first lunch period of the day. The Oak Crest Staff is highly attentive to any dietary requirements your child may have, guaranteeing a personalized and accommodating approach to their meals.
