Summer camp for 1st & 2nd graders 6-8 years old near Warren
As children move from the Munchkin program into first grade at Oak Crest Day Camp, they begin taking part in new, age-appropriate challenges that build physical skills and confidence. First graders learn to climb the tower, ride the zipline, and experience the giant swing—all in a safe and well-supervised setting. They also join in classic camp games like GAGA, which strengthen coordination, reaction time, and teamwork.
By second grade, campers begin choosing some of their own activities each week through the CHOICE program. This system encourages them to explore new interests, discover personal strengths, and develop independence. Whether trying a sport, exploring a creative hobby, or joining a specialty activity, second graders start shaping their camp days based on what excites them most.
Located near Warren, NJ, Oak Crest Day Camp offers an engaging environment where children grow socially, emotionally, and physically while learning to take on new challenges with confidence.
Explorer Athletics
The sports program for first and second graders at Oak Crest Day Camp helps young children develop core athletic skills in a structured, age-appropriate environment. Campers practice fundamentals such as throwing, catching, kicking, and team movement using smaller fields and modified equipment designed for their size and ability. This approach allows each child to focus on proper technique, build confidence, and experience steady progress.
Trained Athletic Specialists lead every activity, teaching each skill step by step to match the developmental needs of 6- to 8-year-olds. After learning the basics, campers take part in organized games where they apply their new abilities and learn how to work together as a team.
Counselors participate alongside the campers, offering individual attention and encouragement. Their support helps every child stay engaged, gain confidence, and enjoy success throughout the program.
Located near Warren, NJ, Oak Crest Day Camp offers this well-rounded sports program to help children strengthen coordination, develop sportsmanship, and build early confidence through active play.
Creative Arts
Children at Oak Crest Day Camp take part in a wide range of arts and specialty programs that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on learning. Campers rotate through activities such as ceramics, cooking, music, dance, drama, jewelry making, science experiments, digital photography, computer skills, and nature exploration. Each program is led by experienced instructors who teach skills appropriate to each age group, with all activities held in air-conditioned classrooms to ensure a comfortable setting for learning and creativity.
For campers ages 6–8, the Explorer Girl groups participate in Showcrest, Oak Crest’s annual dance and drama production held during the sixth week of camp. With professional sound and lighting, this performance gives campers the chance to appear on stage before family and friends. Preparing for the show helps children learn teamwork, build confidence, and develop stage presence while enjoying the excitement of live performance.
Located near Warren, NJ, Oak Crest Day Camp’s arts and specialty programs help children explore new interests, strengthen creative skills, and gain meaningful experiences that support personal growth and self-expression.
Learn to Swim
The swim program for children ages 6 to 8 at Oak Crest Day Camp is designed to help young swimmers build confidence and master essential water skills through daily instruction. Lessons take place in the camp’s 12,000-square-foot Aquatic Complex, which includes multiple pools with depths ranging from 1 to 6 feet. This setup allows campers to begin in shallow water and move to deeper sections as their abilities progress.
Each morning, campers take part in a 40-minute swim lesson led by certified instructors. Counselors assist in the water to provide added support and ensure that every child gets individual attention. Swimmers are grouped by skill level so that instruction targets their specific needs—whether learning basic floating and kicking or refining stroke techniques and endurance.
All instructors complete annual training based on American Red Cross standards, ensuring consistent safety and teaching quality. The program is overseen by a leadership team with more than 25 years of experience helping children develop strong swimming foundations in a structured, encouraging environment.
Located near Warren, NJ, Oak Crest Day Camp’s swim program gives children the skills and confidence they need to become safe, capable swimmers through steady, guided progress each day.
Learn to Ride a Bicycle
Bicycle Village at Oak Crest Day Camp gives children ages 6 to 8 the chance to learn how to ride and strengthen their biking skills in a safe, structured environment. The area includes a ¼-mile paved training course for beginners, a pump track for practicing balance and control, and a wooded trail where campers are introduced to basic mountain biking techniques.
Campers receive guided instruction from staff trained to work with both new and developing riders. Lessons focus on key biking skills such as balancing, steering, braking, and maintaining a steady line. Each child practices step by step, gaining confidence before progressing to more advanced parts of the course.
All bikes and helmets are provided, with equipment fitted to match each camper’s size. Safety and gradual skill development are central to the program, allowing every child to move forward at a comfortable pace while building coordination, independence, and confidence.
Located near Warren, NJ, Oak Crest Day Camp’s Bicycle Village helps young riders develop lifelong skills and enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes from learning to ride successfully.
Ropes Course and Low Ropes Course
Ropes course activities at Oak Crest Day Camp are introduced to children ages 6 to 8 through a step-by-step program that grows with their ability and confidence. First graders begin on the low ropes course, which is built specifically for younger campers. These elements sit just inches off the ground and help children develop balance, coordination, and core strength as they climb, swing, and move through each challenge safely.
By second grade, campers advance to the Climbing Tower and Zipline. These activities add height and complexity, allowing children to apply the strength and problem-solving skills gained on the low ropes course. Instructors guide each camper through the process, ensuring they climb at a pace that feels comfortable while maintaining focus on safety and correct technique.
All ropes course elements and equipment are thoroughly inspected before each camp season by the original builders. Certified instructors perform daily safety checks and remain with the campers throughout every session to ensure full supervision and proper equipment use.
Located near Warren, NJ, Oak Crest Day Camp’s ropes program helps young campers gain confidence, build physical skills, and experience accomplishment through a carefully structured and safety-focused adventure experience.
Social Development
In the Explorer Division, children ages 6 to 8 spend each day taking part in group-based activities that teach teamwork, cooperation, and clear communication. Campers work together in pairs, small groups, and full teams to complete challenges, solve problems, and support one another throughout the day.
Counselors play an active role in guiding these interactions. They help campers practice listening, expressing ideas respectfully, and resolving conflicts through conversation. Staff are trained to model positive behavior and reinforce social awareness, creating a consistent environment where every camper learns how to contribute to the group.
As friendships grow, children learn how to collaborate with different personalities and take on shared responsibilities—whether during a team game, a group project, or part of their daily routine. These experiences help campers build empathy, patience, and confidence in expressing themselves effectively.
Located near Warren, NJ, Oak Crest Day Camp’s Explorer Division focuses on developing the social and emotional skills that help children succeed both at camp and beyond.