Summer camp for 1st & 2nd graders 6-8 year olds near Harding Township
At Tamarack Day Camp, our Explorer program focuses on the growth and independence of young campers ages 6 to 8. At this stage, children are ready to try new things, build confidence, and develop friendships in a supportive setting. Each day includes a balance of structured activities and guided play, allowing campers to explore their interests and discover new skills at their own pace.
We design every activity to match the abilities and attention spans of this age group—whether they’re learning to swim, working together on a team challenge, or creating art projects they can be proud of. Our goal is to help each child gain a sense of accomplishment and excitement about learning and trying new things.
Families near Harding Township, NJ choose Tamarack Day Camp because our Explorer program grows alongside each camper, offering just the right mix of fun, challenge, and personal development.
Our 1st and 2nd grade programs are designed to help young campers take on new challenges, make choices, and build confidence in a safe, supportive setting.
For 1st graders, the focus is on exploration and courage. Campers experience exciting adventures like the Zipline and Giant Swing, where they learn to trust themselves and celebrate each success. They also join in GAGA, a long-standing Tamarack tradition that encourages teamwork, fair play, and active fun.
By 2nd grade, campers are ready for more independence through CHOICE, a daily activity period that allows them to select their preferred activities for the week. This structure gives children ownership over their camp experience and helps them discover what they truly enjoy—whether that’s sports, creative arts, or outdoor play.
We also introduce the Learn to Bike Program, where campers practice balance, coordination, and confidence on two wheels—skills that prepare them for our advanced Mountain Biking program in future summers.
Families near Harding Township, NJ choose Tamarack Day Camp because our programs are thoughtfully designed to support every stage of a child’s growth—physically, socially, and emotionally—while ensuring each summer is filled with learning and excitement.
Explorer Athletics
Explorer Athletics gives campers ages 6 to 8 the chance to learn, play, and grow through sports designed specifically for their age and ability. Each activity is structured to teach the fundamentals—throwing, catching, teamwork, and sportsmanship—while making sure every child feels capable and included. Fields and courts are adjusted in size, and equipment is scaled appropriately, allowing campers to focus on developing real skills and confidence in an encouraging setting.
Campers are introduced to both familiar and new sports, including Pickleball and Lacrosse, along with classic camp favorites. Our Athletic Specialists guide each session with clear instruction, ensuring that every game reinforces what campers have learned. Rather than focusing on competition, the emphasis is on effort, improvement, and fun.
Throughout every session, Tamarack counselors are active participants—playing alongside campers, offering encouragement, and helping each child experience success on the field.
Families near Harding Township, NJ appreciate that Tamarack Day Camp provides an athletic program that builds physical coordination, teamwork, and confidence, giving young campers a strong foundation to enjoy sports for years to come.
Creative Arts
In our air-conditioned art studios, campers explore creativity through a wide range of hands-on activities guided by experienced instructors. Each week, children work on projects that let them experiment, create, and express themselves across multiple areas—Ceramics, Mad Science, Cooking, Drama, Nature exploration, Dance, Digital Photography, Jewelry Making, and more. Every activity is designed to help campers build confidence, focus, and imagination while developing practical skills they can take pride in.
A highlight of the summer is the Dance and Drama Production, where our Explorer Girl groups showcase what they’ve learned. This special performance takes place during the sixth week of camp at a local venue near Harding Township, NJ, complete with professional sound and lighting. Families gather to watch their children perform on stage, celebrating weeks of preparation, teamwork, and creativity.
At Tamarack Day Camp, we believe artistic expression is just as important as play and sports. Our creative programs encourage campers to try new things, take pride in their work, and discover their own unique talents in an environment built for growth and joy.
Learn to Swim
The Learn-to-Swim Program at Tamarack Day Camp is a cornerstone of the experience for campers ages 6 to 8. Our aquatic facility features a 12,000-square-foot pool with depths ranging from 1 to 6 feet, giving children a safe and structured space to develop swimming skills at their own pace.
Each morning, campers take part in 40-minute instructional swim sessions led by certified instructors and supported by their group counselors. Lessons are organized by skill level rather than age, ensuring that every swimmer receives the right balance of challenge and encouragement. In the afternoons, all campers enjoy free swim time, where they can practice what they’ve learned and build confidence in the water.
Our teaching approach combines American Red Cross standards with over 25 years of experience helping children become capable, confident swimmers. Every year, Tamarack invests in training its instructors to use proven, age-appropriate methods that emphasize safety, consistency, and individual progress.
Families near Harding Township, NJ value that Tamarack Day Camp provides a comprehensive and thoughtful swim program—one that helps each child grow from beginner to skilled swimmer through patient instruction and daily practice.
Ropes Course
