In the 08846 area of New Jersey, Oak Crest offers both a 5 full-day and a 3 full-day program for young children. Within our Munchkin Division, we maintain an excellent camper-to-staff ratio, typically ranging from 10 to 12 campers per 3 to 4 staff members. Additionally, each activity is supervised by a Munchkin Specialist, who has been specially recruited and trained to meet the specific needs of children aged 3, 4, and 5.
The Munchkin Program focuses on three key areas: the development of gross and fine motor skills through engaging athletic and creative activities, the acquisition of swimming skills, and the promotion of social development.
Oak Crest provides modified versions of various sports activities to accommodate our youngest campers. These include mini-soccer, mini-basketball, t-ball, and gymnastics. Our approach involves adapting traditional sports to ensure that children aged 3, 4, and 5 can experience success. Our athletic specialists, who have received specific training for working with this age group, guide your child in learning the fundamental skills of these sports in a manner that is both age-appropriate and engaging.
Located in 08846, NJ, Oak Crest’s Creative Arts Center serves as an exceptional hub for artistic expression. Here, your child can engage in a wide range of artistic activities within well-appointed, air-conditioned classrooms under the guidance of experienced art instructors. Our campers actively participate in various activities each week, including Ceramics, Music, Cooking, Drama, Nature exploration, Dance, Digital Photography, Jewelry Making, Computers, and more.
Furthermore, to enhance the overall experience, each Munchkin group contributes to the annual Showcrest, a grand Dance and Drama Production. This event, held during the 6th week of camp, takes place in the evening at a local venue and features professional-grade sound and lighting, creating a truly remarkable spectacle.
Climbing and Ropes Courses are essential components of the Summer Camp experience at Oak Crest in 08846, NJ. We have established a low ropes course with a dual purpose: to promote the development of gross motor skills in our Munchkins and equip them with the necessary skills for the Climbing Tower. During their time on the Low Ropes Course, our young campers engage in climbing, exploration, and swinging, all while being just inches above the ground.
To ensure the highest level of safety, our ropes courses undergo thorough inspection and certification by the construction company at the start of each season. Furthermore, our certified ropes instructors, who guide the groups through all ropes courses, perform daily checks to maintain a secure environment for the campers.
Swimming transcends being a life skill; it represents a vital proficiency that finds its optimal acquisition within our newly established, cutting-edge 12,000 square foot Aquatic Complex located in 08846, NJ. Our unwavering commitment to excellence is demonstrated through our annual training regimen for instructors, which draws from both American Red Cross guidelines and our extensive practical experience spanning over 25 years in teaching children how to swim. We firmly assure you that your child will achieve mastery in the art of swimming at Oak Crest.
To cater to beginners, our state-of-the-art Aquatic Facility boasts two shallow pools, ensuring that even the youngest campers can confidently stand. This setup significantly enhances their comfort levels and initial progress. Each morning, our campers partake in a 40-minute swim lesson led by a certified swim instructor, with support from 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.
One of the most captivating elements of the camp experience is the cultivation of children’s proficiency in navigating group dynamics. This process fosters increased self-confidence and independence among them. As they transition between diverse activities, the group actively participates in the development of friendships, collaborative endeavors, sharing, taking turns, and learning to engage respectfully with both peers and staff.
Our committed staff plays a pivotal role in empowering Munchkin campers to express their thoughts verbally and guiding them in effective communication. Oak Crest offers a nurturing environment where children acquire the emotional and social skills that are fundamental for success in life.
In order to meet the specific nutritional needs of our preschool campers, the Munchkins have a separate dining arrangement from the rest of the camp, where they enjoy 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 meal plan.
