Summer camp for 1st & 2nd graders 6-8 year olds near Victory Gardens
Tamarack Day Camp’s Explorer program is built for children ages 6 to 8, giving younger campers a camp experience that matches their stage of growth. For families near Victory Gardens, NJ, the program offers a balanced mix of age-appropriate activities that help campers build confidence, make friends, and try new things in a supportive setting. As campers grow, the program gives them more opportunities to explore, participate, and develop independence at a pace that feels right for them.
First graders at Tamarack Day Camp begin taking on new challenges through activities like the Zipline, Giant Swing, and GAGA, a long-standing Tamarack tradition. These activities help younger campers build confidence, practice teamwork, and feel proud of what they accomplish.
In their 2nd year, campers are introduced to CHOICE, a weekly activity period where they select the activity they want to participate in each day. This gives them more independence and helps them discover what they enjoy most. Campers also begin the Learn to Bike Program, which helps them develop the skills they need before moving into the Mountain Biking program.
Tamarack Day Camp offers a program that supports growth in more than physical skills. Campers also learn how to make decisions, work with others, build friendships, and become more independent through age-appropriate camp experiences.
Explorer Athletics
Explorer Athletics at Tamarack Day Camp is designed for campers ages 6 to 8 who are learning the basics of sports in a way that fits their age and ability. Instead of using full-size fields, courts, and equipment, the program uses scaled-down spaces and age-appropriate gear so younger campers can participate, understand the rules, and build skills with more confidence.
Campers are introduced to traditional sports along with activities like Pickleball and Lacrosse. Athletic Specialists teach the fundamentals step by step, then help campers apply those skills through games and practice. This gives each child a chance to improve coordination, learn teamwork, and experience success while staying active.
Tamarack Day Camp offers an athletics program where counselors stay involved during each activity. They play alongside campers, offer support, and help create a setting where children can learn from mistakes, celebrate progress, and feel included in every session.
Creative Arts
Creative activities are a key part of the Explorer experience at Tamarack Day Camp. Campers spend time in air-conditioned art studios where they can try hands-on projects, learn new skills, and express themselves in different ways.
Each week, campers take part in activities such as Ceramics, Mad Science, Cooking, Drama, Nature, Dance, Digital Photography, Jewelry Making, and more. These programs give children the chance to explore different interests while building confidence, focus, and creativity.
Explorer Girl groups also participate in an annual Dance and Drama Production during the 6th week of camp. Held at a local venue with professional sound and lighting, the production gives campers the opportunity to perform, work together, and share what they have practiced with family and friends.
For parents near Victory Gardens, NJ, Tamarack Day Camp offers creative programming that helps young campers develop new interests while enjoying a structured and supportive camp experience.
Learn to Swim
Swimming is an important part of the Explorer program at Tamarack Day Camp for children ages 6 to 8. The Learn-to-Swim Program gives younger campers daily support in the water while helping them build comfort, safety, and skill at their own pace.
The aquatic facility includes a 12,000-square-foot pool with water depths ranging from 1 foot to 6 feet. This setup allows campers to begin in shallow water and progress as their confidence and ability grow. Each morning, certified swim instructors lead 40-minute lessons with support from group counselors. Campers are placed by swimming ability, not just age, so each child receives instruction that fits their current level.
In the afternoon, campers return to the pool for free swim. This gives them more time to practice, enjoy the water, and strengthen the skills they are learning during lessons. The teaching approach is based on American Red Cross standards and more than 25 years of experience helping children become stronger swimmers.
Tamarack Day Camp offers a swim program that focuses on steady progress, water confidence, and clear instruction from trained staff.
Ropes Course
