Summer camp for 1st & 2nd graders 6-8 year olds near Chester
Explorer Athletics
Explorer Athletics at Tamarack Day Camp is designed specifically for children aged 6 to 8 and is a favorite among families near Chester, NJ. Our program offers a unique approach to traditional sports, focusing on making them accessible for younger campers. By using smaller fields and courts, along with equipment suited to their age, every child can participate and understand the fundamentals of each game.
In addition to popular sports like soccer and basketball, we introduce campers to Pickleball and Lacrosse, providing them with a chance to learn new activities in a supportive environment. Our Athletic Specialists guide the campers through each sport, helping them build skills and confidence. The Tamarack counselors are also fully involved, playing alongside the children and supporting them throughout each session. This approach ensures that every camper has the opportunity to practice, improve, and enjoy their athletic experience.
Creative Arts
At Tamarack Day Camp, our air-conditioned art studios provide a space where children can explore a variety of creative activities. Each week, campers take part in hands-on experiences like Ceramics, Mad Science, Cooking, Drama, Nature exploration, Dance, Digital Photography, Jewelry Making, and more. These activities are led by experienced instructors who guide campers through the process while encouraging their creativity.
One of the highlights for our Explorer Girl groups is the Dance and Drama Production. This annual performance, held during the 6th week of camp, allows campers to showcase their talents. The event features professional sound and lighting and takes place at a local venue, giving parents near Chester, NJ, the chance to see their children’s achievements in action.
Learn to Swim
Tamarack Day Camp’s Learn-to-Swim Program is a key feature for children aged 6-8. Our 12,000 square foot pool, with depths ranging from 1 to 6 feet, provides a safe and structured space for campers to develop their swimming skills. The facility is designed to support gradual learning and progress, ensuring that children feel comfortable and confident in the water.
Each morning, certified swim instructors lead 40-minute lessons that are based on each child’s skill level rather than age. This personalized approach ensures that campers receive the right level of challenge and support. Group counselors assist during these sessions, creating a focused learning environment. In the afternoons, children enjoy free swim time, allowing them to practice and build confidence in the water.
Our teaching methods are rooted in both American Red Cross standards and over 25 years of experience. We also train our instructors each year to ensure they are equipped with effective techniques for helping campers succeed. This program is designed to help children near Chester, NJ, gain proficiency and comfort in the water, making swimming an enjoyable and rewarding part of their camp experience.
Ropes Course
At Tamarack Day Camp, children aged 6-8 can experience the excitement of our ropes course, designed to help them build confidence and challenge themselves in a supportive environment. The course introduces campers to activities like the Zipline in a gradual and safe way, allowing them to progress at their own pace.
Campers begin on the Confidence Course, just 5 feet above the ground. This low ropes course helps them get comfortable with being on belay and navigating obstacles similar to those found on our High Ropes Course. It provides a secure space for them to build both their physical and mental strength.
Safety is a top priority at Tamarack. Our ropes course is inspected thoroughly each season, and certified instructors perform daily safety checks. These instructors guide campers through the course, ensuring they have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Parents near Chester, NJ, can feel confident that their children will have a fun and secure adventure on Tamarack’s ropes course, where climbing walls, zip lines, and other challenges await.
Social Development
At Tamarack Day Camp, the Explorer program focuses on building teamwork and cooperation among campers aged 6-8. Children participate in group activities throughout the day that encourage them to work together and support each other. Counselors guide the campers in developing strong friendships and learning how to interact respectfully with their peers and staff.
This program helps children practice direct communication and fosters a sense of mutual respect. Through these experiences, campers gain important social and emotional skills that will benefit them as they grow. Parents near Chester, NJ, can feel confident that their children will develop these essential skills in a supportive and engaging environment at Tamarack Day Camp.