Summer camp for 1st & 2nd graders 6-8 years old near Kendall Park
As children grow, their camp experience at Oak Crest Day Camp grows with them. For kids entering 1st and 2nd grade, our Explorers program introduces new challenges and opportunities that build confidence, independence, and skill. Designed as the next step after our Munchkin program, the Explorer level focuses on strengthening both athletic and creative abilities while helping campers improve their swimming skills and interact more confidently with peers.
For rising 1st graders, the program includes exciting, age-appropriate activities such as the Climbing Tower, Zipline, and Giant Swing—along with Oak Crest’s signature game, GAGA. These experiences are designed to push limits in a safe, supportive environment, encouraging kids to try new things and gain a sense of accomplishment.
By 2nd grade, campers are ready for more independence. Each week, they get to choose one activity that aligns with their interests—whether it’s sports, arts, or other specialties. This weekly “choice” model gives them a greater sense of ownership in their camp day and exposes them to new experiences in a way that feels empowering.
Oak Crest Day Camp, located near Kendall Park, NJ, helps children make meaningful progress—physically, socially, and emotionally—at every stage of their early development.
Explorer Athletics
At Oak Crest Day Camp, 1st and 2nd grade campers learn the basics of team sports in a way that’s built for their age and ability level. We use smaller fields, age-appropriate equipment, and modified rules so kids can understand the structure of each sport and build confidence through active participation. Every game is designed to teach skills, not just keep kids busy.
Our Athletic Specialists lead each session with clear instruction and hands-on support. They break skills down into simple steps, then reinforce those skills during organized play. Oak Crest counselors join in every game, helping guide campers and working closely with the specialists to make sure each child feels included and successful.
Families near Kendall Park, NJ, choose Oak Crest Day Camp because our athletic program gives younger campers a strong foundation in sports while making sure they stay motivated, safe, and encouraged.
Creative Arts
At Oak Crest Day Camp, children entering 1st and 2nd grade are introduced to a wide range of hands-on, creative activities designed to spark curiosity and develop new skills. In air-conditioned spaces, campers rotate through weekly sessions in areas like Ceramics, Cooking, Music, Drama, Nature, Dance, Computers, Digital Photography, Mad Science, and Jewelry Making. Each program is led by instructors who focus on age-appropriate instruction and exploration, giving every child a chance to try something new.
For Explorer Girls ages 6 to 8, the summer includes a special opportunity to participate in Showcrest—a dance and drama production that takes place during week six of camp. This event is held offsite with professional sound and lighting, giving campers a chance to rehearse, perform, and experience what it’s like to be part of a real stage production.
Parents near Kendall Park, NJ, choose Oak Crest Day Camp because of its strong emphasis on creativity, performance, and self-expression—especially for young campers who enjoy the arts and thrive in a structured, supportive environment.
Learn to Swim
At Oak Crest Day Camp, swimming is a key part of the daily schedule for campers ages 6 to 8. Our Learn-to-Swim program takes place in a 12,000 square foot Aquatic Complex that was built specifically for younger children. It includes multiple pools with water depths ranging from just 1 foot to 6 feet, allowing beginners to start safely in shallow water before gradually working up to deeper levels as they improve.
Every morning, certified swim instructors lead structured 40-minute lessons that are matched to each camper’s skill level—not just their age. Group counselors assist in the water, ensuring that every child gets personal attention and support. Our swim staff follows American Red Cross teaching methods, and instructors complete updated training each year. The swim program is backed by over 25 years of experience helping young children gain water confidence, improve technique, and develop a love for swimming.
Parents near Kendall Park, NJ, trust Oak Crest Day Camp to provide a consistent, safe, and results-driven swim program that helps children make real progress while enjoying their time in the pool.
Learn to Ride a Bicycle
At Oak Crest Day Camp, children ages 6 to 8 have the chance to learn and improve their biking skills at Bicycle Village—a dedicated area built for young riders. The space includes a 1/4-mile training loop, a pump track designed for balance and control, and a trail that helps prepare campers for more advanced biking, like mountain riding.
Learning to ride a bike is a key milestone for children, and our program is designed to support that process. Campers are matched with bikes that fit their size, and everyone is required to wear a helmet for safety. Instructors work closely with each child, focusing on building balance, coordination, and overall riding ability. Whether a camper is just starting or looking to gain more control and speed, staff provide hands-on instruction that meets each child at their level.
Parents near Kendall Park, NJ, choose Oak Crest Day Camp because Bicycle Village offers a structured, safe environment where kids can develop real biking skills while gaining confidence and independence.
Ropes Course and Low Ropes Course
