Summer camp for 1st & 2nd graders 6-8 year olds near Lincoln Park
At Tamarack Day Camp, we focus on supporting the growth of children ages 6 to 8 through a program built specifically for early elementary-age campers. Our Explorer program progresses with them, introducing age-appropriate challenges and hands-on activities that help build confidence, independence, and social skills. Each day is structured to give campers opportunities to try new things, practice developing abilities, and enjoy experiences that match their stage of learning.
Families living near Lincoln Park, NJ appreciate that this program provides clear progression and purposeful activities—not just recreation, but meaningful development wrapped in a fun camp day. The Explorer program gives young campers the stability, encouragement, and guided adventure they need as they grow from curious beginners into more capable and confident participants.
Our 1st and 2nd grade program at Tamarack Day Camp gives young campers a clear path for growth through structured adventure, skill-building, and guided choice. For 1st graders, we introduce core activities such as the Zipline, Giant Swing, and GAGA. These experiences help children practice balance, coordination, and teamwork while learning how to take on challenges in a safe and supportive setting.
In their 2nd year, campers begin CHOICE, a daily activity period that allows them to select one focused option for the entire week. This simple decision-making structure helps children explore personal interests and learn responsibility in an age-appropriate way. They also start our Learn to Bike Program, where staff teach them basic riding skills and safe biking habits. This early training prepares campers for the Mountain Biking program they will encounter as they advance through our offerings.
Families living near Lincoln Park, NJ appreciate that the program supports both physical development and social-emotional growth. Each activity is designed to help children communicate effectively, build confidence, and gain the skills needed to participate successfully as they move into new stages of camp.
Explorer Athletics
Explorer Athletics gives 6–8-year-olds at Tamarack Day Camp the chance to learn sports in a way that fits their age and skill level. We use smaller fields, scaled-down courts, and equipment designed for young players so every child can understand the basics and build confidence as they learn.
Campers are introduced to Pickleball, Lacrosse, and a range of traditional sports. Our Athletic Specialists focus on teaching clear, foundational skills and then reinforcing those skills through structured games that help children apply what they have learned. Tamarack counselors participate alongside the campers, guiding them through each activity and supporting moments of progress, effort, and accomplishment.
Families living near Lincoln Park, NJ value that Explorer Athletics provides a balance of instruction and practice, giving young athletes a straightforward path to understanding sports while building teamwork, communication, and resilience.
Creative Arts
Our creative arts program at Tamarack Day Camp gives young campers access to a wide range of hands-on activities in cool, air-conditioned studios. Each week, children rotate through experiences such as Ceramics, Mad Science, Cooking, Drama, Nature exploration, Dance, Digital Photography, Jewelry Making, and additional specialty projects that allow them to explore different forms of expression and develop new skills.
Explorer Girl groups prepare throughout the summer for a Dance and Drama Production held during the 6th week of camp. This performance features professional sound and lighting and takes place at a local venue, giving families the chance to see the work their children have put into learning choreography, practicing roles, and working together as a team.
Families living near Lincoln Park, NJ appreciate that these activities balance creativity, structure, and skill development. Campers gain experience with many types of art, learn to present their work confidently, and take part in a culminating event that highlights their progress.
Learn to Swim
Tamarack Day Camp’s Learn-to-Swim Program provides a structured and supportive path for 6–8-year-olds to build strong swimming skills. Our aquatic facility includes a 12,000-square-foot pool with depths from 1 to 6 feet, giving young swimmers space to learn safely and progress as their abilities grow.
Each morning, certified instructors lead 40-minute lessons that group campers by skill level rather than age. This ensures every child practices at the right pace—whether they are getting comfortable in the water, learning foundational strokes, or advancing toward more confident swimming. Group counselors assist throughout each lesson, helping reinforce instruction and maintain consistency. In the afternoon, all campers return for free swim, giving them time to practice skills and gain comfort in a supervised setting.
Our teaching approach blends American Red Cross guidelines with more than 25 years of focused experience helping children become capable swimmers. Instructors receive updated training each year so they can teach effectively, support different learning styles, and guide campers toward long-term success in the water.
Families living near Lincoln Park, NJ value that this program gives young swimmers a clear structure, experienced supervision, and regular time in the water—all essential for steady progress and confidence.
Ropes Course
