Summer camp for 1st & 2nd graders 6-8 year olds near Chester Borough
At Tamarack Day Camp, our Explorer program is created specifically for children ages 6 to 8. We focus on helping young campers build confidence, try new things, and develop friendships in a supportive environment. Each day includes age-appropriate activities that encourage movement, creativity, and social interaction—such as beginner sports, swimming instruction, arts and crafts, and nature exploration. The Explorer program is designed to grow with your child, offering new challenges and experiences each summer. Families living near Chester Borough, NJ, consistently choose Tamarack because of our thoughtful approach to early camper development.
First graders are introduced to new challenges that support both physical growth and self-confidence. They take on the Zipline and Giant Swing—activities that encourage them to step outside their comfort zones in a safe, supervised setting. They also join daily games of GAGA, a Tamarack Day Camp tradition that promotes movement, teamwork, and quick thinking. In their second summer, campers begin CHOICE, a daily period where they select an activity based on their own interests, helping them build decision-making skills and a sense of independence. Second graders also take part in our Learn to Bike Program, where they receive hands-on instruction to help them ride confidently, setting the foundation for our Mountain Biking program in later years. Many families near Chester Borough, NJ, value this age-specific structure that helps children grow socially, emotionally, and physically.
Explorer Athletics
Explorer Athletics at Tamarack Day Camp is designed specifically for children ages 6 to 8, with a focus on teaching the basics of team sports in a way that fits their developmental stage. Fields and courts are scaled down in size, and all equipment is age-appropriate, allowing young campers to learn the rules, practice new skills, and experience success during gameplay. Campers are introduced to a variety of sports, including Pickleball and Lacrosse, alongside traditional games like soccer and basketball. Athletic Specialists lead each session with a focus on skill-building, while Tamarack counselors participate in every activity, offering encouragement and support throughout. For families near Chester Borough, NJ, this program offers a structured and supportive way for young children to build physical skills, work with teammates, and grow in confidence through daily participation in sports.
Creative Arts
Campers ages 6 to 8 take part in a wide range of creative activities at Tamarack Day Camp, all held in air-conditioned studio spaces designed for focused, hands-on learning. Each week, children rotate through programs such as Ceramics, Cooking, Jewelry Making, Dance, Digital Photography, Drama, Mad Science, and Nature exploration. These sessions are led by experienced instructors who guide campers through projects that build fine motor skills, self-expression, and creativity.
Explorer Girl groups also prepare for a Dance and Drama Production, performed during Week 6 of camp. This event takes place at a local venue near Chester Borough, NJ, and features professional sound and lighting. It gives campers the chance to work as a team, build confidence on stage, and showcase what they’ve learned in front of family and friends.
Learn to Swim
The Learn-to-Swim Program at Tamarack Day Camp is a core part of the experience for campers ages 6 to 8. Lessons take place in a 12,000-square-foot pool with water depths ranging from 1 to 6 feet, creating a safe space for all ability levels. Campers participate in daily 40-minute swim lessons led by certified instructors, with support from their group counselors. Instruction is based on skill level rather than age, so each child receives appropriate guidance and challenge as they progress.
In the afternoons, campers return to the pool for free swim, giving them time to build comfort and practice what they’ve learned. Tamarack’s swim curriculum follows American Red Cross guidelines and is backed by over 25 years of experience teaching children how to swim. All instructors go through annual training to stay current with teaching methods and safety practices. Families near Chester Borough, NJ, choose Tamarack for its structured, consistent approach that helps young swimmers gain confidence in the water.
Ropes Course
