best dance programs in Closter, NJ

Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.

Drive down the Lindgren drive and you know you’ve entered into a very special place. Set in our woodland oasis, Lindgren camp is a haven, unlike any summer camp in the local area. The beautiful outdoor grounds and pavilions create a true outdoor camp experience,“a bit of country right here in Closter.” Lindgren teachers, local elementary teachers and artisans bring their talents to each department offered at the camp. Children have the freedom to choose how to spend their time in an atmosphere free of pressure. Campers can choose painting or playing games, making mud pies or real pies, learning about birds or learning to swim. From an extensive arts and crafts program, to sports and swim lessons, the farm animals and gardens, and the adjacent Closter Nature Center, it’s a country atmosphere that engages and inspires campers—and lets children be children.

Our summer camp exists exclusively for the young child 18 months to 9 years of age. Our aim is to nurture and develop each child’s greatest potential during a stimulating and fun filled summer! We have created a relaxed environment where campers feel comfortable and confident. Our small group size and excellent camper to counselor ratio assure the fostering of each camper’s social, emotional and physical needs. After a summer at Palisades Country Day Camp, campers feel a sense of accomplishment, importance and independence which in turn builds strong self-esteem!

Whole Child Education. At Evergreen Kids Academy, it’s our belief that a child learns best when every aspect of a child’s development – cognitive, physical, social and emotional – is nurtured. Our Whole Child approach – based on the approach developed by Maria Montessori – concentrates on skills that include early literacy, logical thinking, problem solving,social understanding, physical coordination, creativity and positive character traits, such as cooperation and self-control. It is characterized by an emphasis on independence, freedom within limits, and respect for a child’s natural psychological development. By adhering to this philosophy to help nurture all of these areas of your child’s development, our goal is to create good citizens with a strong intellectual curiosity. At Evergreen Kids Academy, we believe education should be about more than memorization and repetition. We offer a completely different approach, with a unique, open environment that emphasizes your child’s natural interests and allows your child to set his or her own development pace. The practical application of sensory-based and self-directed learning for children is the most important thread that runs through our Toddler and Primary programs. Language, mathematics, spatial learning, self-discovery, music and art – they’re all incorporated into our approach. Every Evergreen Kids Academy teacher will work with your child to individually encourage her to explore the areas that excite and engage her. As children master an exercise, we guide them to the next appropriate challenge. Students will be treated as equals, and respected as individuals with their own unique thoughts, ideas, perspectives, and talents.

At Classic Ballet School in Closter, New Jersey, we are committed to providing the highest level of ballet instruction since 1969. Our director, Carolyn Santonicola, has assembled a team of knowledgeable and experienced instructors to share their love of dance, both in the classroom and on the stage. We offer a variety of classes for children and teens aged 3 and up, including pre-ballet, ballet technique and pointe classes. Our nurturing and supportive atmosphere allows our students to learn and grow in the art of ballet. All students have the opportunity to perform in our annual Nutcracker and Spring Recital. At Classic Ballet School, we strive to help our students reach their fullest potential in the art of ballet. We are passionate about providing a safe and positive learning environment, while instilling a love and appreciation for the art of dance. We invite you to come and join us in our beautiful studio and experience the joy of ballet first hand.