Ocean County is on the shore of the Atlantic Ocean.
Bordering the Atlantic Ocean, Ocean County is one of the largest counties in New Jersey. The kids of Ocean County, N.J. have access to the arts and convenience of cities nearby such as New York and Philadelphia, but Ocean County itself has its own history, culture and entertainment possibilities for kids. Being educated about Ocean County can help kids appreciate their home county.
Children's Services
Some children require assistance from the government if their parents cannot care for them, or if their families need support. Ocean County Department of Juvenile Services provides help to kids in need. The Ocean County Children's Shelter provides shelter and food for kids in need and homeless families with children. Ocean County has a school mentoring program created to help kids improve their grades. The Truth about Gangs program teaches kids about the danger of gangs.
History
Founded in the 1600s primarily by whalers and smugglers, Ocean County was a port town. The people of Ocean County survived from fishing, farming, and importing goods through their ports. After the Civil War, Ocean County's beaches became resort areas targeted at people wealthy enough to take vacations. Highways built in the 1950s created the ability for people to drive to Ocean County from other states, bringing in vacationers who wanted to go to the beach.
Recreation
Ocean County has many options for recreation for all ages. Kids and families that live in Ocean County enjoy being near the beach, which has warm ocean water due to the Gulf Stream. Amusement parks with rides and games can be found along the boardwalk, as well as at Six Flags Great Adventure. Boardwalks often have ice cream, games and shops for kids. Local aquariums such as the Jenkinson's Aquarium teach kids about ocean life.
Statistics
Ocean County is the second largest county in New Jersey. The population of Ocean County in 1998 was over 450,000. Most of the population in New Jersey increased due to people moving into the area, rather than natural population growth. The climate of Ocean County is mild and Ocean County has four seasons. The lows in Ocean County tend to stay above 25 degrees Fahrenheit, and summers are usually no warmer than 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
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