child enrichment programs in Garwood, 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.

Our programs have a strong focus on personal development. The foundations of our morals, values and core character traits are formed in our early years. For this reason, the programs at Hands of Life Martial Arts are an essential way to enhance the growth and personal development of young students of all ages.

At AFFA our mission is to provide the highest level of instruction in a positive learning environment for students of all skill levels and to encourage their growth as a fencer and as a person. Teaching first hand the benefits of hard work, self-motivation, perseverance and the value of sportsmanship through the sport of fencing. If you are interested in learning more about selection of beginner, intermediate, and advanced fencing classes or to book private fencing lessons, we welcome you to contact our local fencing club today! We are located in Garwood, NJ and our instructors are proud to teach students throughout Westfield, Cranford, Watchung, Berkley Heights, Summit, Chatham, Scotch Plains, Livingston, Short Hills, Milburn, NJ, and the surrounding communities.

Hanshi Errol Sana Bennett is a eight degree black belt, has studied martial arts for over 50 years under Kaicho Nakamura, Grand Master and founder of the World Seido Karate Organization. Before moving to New Jersey, Hanshi co-founded youth programs, developed after-school programs. designed demonstrations and instructed karate lessons at the NYC Vanderbilt and West Side YMCA, APEX Gym, Golds Gym and the New York Sports Club in Manhattan. In 1995, Hanshi and his family moved to New Jersey. Hanshi continued to teach in NYC. Because of the daily commute and long hours away from his family, Hanshi decided to open a karate school near his home. In October of 1997, he opened the doors to Sana Seido Karate in Garwood, New Jersey. Hanshi was determined to build a family of Karate students in this new location.

South Avenue Arts is an independent and creative community art space. We offer art classes for adults, kids and teens, summer art camp, kids’ birthday parties, girl scout events and handmade local art, jewelry and gifts. Our unique bar space is also available for private event rentals, artist gallery shows, corporate meetings/team building and group painting parties.

At Cranford Guitar and Music Center, families from Cranford, Garwood, Westfield, Scotch Plains, Mountainside, Roselle Park, Kenilworth, and Union have been coming for years to take advantage of the exceptional music training offered. The school offers lessons in guitar, bass, voice, drums, trumpet, and piano, and is always growing to meet the needs of its students. Not only does Cranford Guitar provide instruction in these instruments, they also have a number of annual performance opportunities and personalized curriculum from each instructor. Cranford Guitar and Music Center is a cornerstone in local music education and has held its place as a leading learning institution in Union County for years. Boasting a wide range of instruments and lessons, the school has something for everyone. From guitar and bass, to voice, drums, trumpet, and piano, Cranford Guitar and Music Center is committed to helping its students reach their fullest potential. With annual performance opportunities and personalized curriculum, the school is an invaluable resource to families in the area.

Have you ever taken music lessons but stopped because you were bored with the songs, didn't like your teacher, or never felt like you got the opportunity to put your skills to the test on a real stage? Too often we hear stories of students who become discouraged with their music lessons and stop before they've even scratched the surface of their potential. They don't like the music they're playing, don't feel like they're getting any better, don't feel the sense of community at their school, and eventually decide to stop lessons altogether, letting their passion and skills fade into the background. Many students don't return to music lessons after experiences like this and regret it into adulthood: "I wish I had stuck with music lessons...I would love to be able to play with my children...I just want to accompany myself on songs I like to play." ​

Gymnastics creates psychomotor development incorporating skills that will develop strength, speed, flexibility, balance, power, coordination, agility as well as discipline, socialization and self-esteem. Student's will build strength and have fun while being physically active. Gymnastics is great preparation for any sport or activity your child may want to participate in the future! Surgent's provides New Jersey's most comprehensive gymnastics program! During the course of 37 years of operation and experience has allowed us to develop progression lesson plans and learning tools that combine gymnastics fundamentals and fun for a rewarding class experience. Surgent’s Elite has taught over 70,000 children gymnastics. Our instructors are safety certified, professional and experienced. They bring the newest knowledge in gymnastics from all parts of the world. Our low student to teacher ratio ensures personal attention and maximizes safety. Our #1 priority is to recruit instructors who have a strong love of children and the desire to make a difference in children’s lives.

Get ready to tear down obstacles. Here, reality takes over and you obligated to face your inner self and battle your frustrations. We at Renzo Gracie Garwood believe that EVERYONE is equal regardless of their race, religion, political view or financial status. So start your journey with us today and enjoy the ride. We offer classes for every level, and each class is a new experience. All martial art classes are taught by a certified black belt. Our trainers are prepared to help you to achieve your goals. Conditioning class available by appointment.