Imagine a place where children can paint, build, tinker, explore and learn—while the adults who care for them discover simple ways to turn everyday play into meaningful learning experiences. That is what families will find at the Soar Lab, a welcoming, hands-on learning space created by Soar in 4.
Soar in 4 began in 2017 after Carolyn and Steve Roskamp learned about the number of local children entering school without the early literacy skills they needed to succeed. As they explored why similar communities experienced different outcomes, they discovered the importance of investing in children before they reach kindergarten. From that realization, Soar in 4 was born—bringing parents, schools, businesses and community organizations together to help children build a strong foundation for school and beyond.
That vision now has a permanent home at the Soar Lab, which opened in fall 2025 at the Sara Scott Harllee Campus in Bradenton. Designed as a children’s museum-like learning environment, the Lab includes spaces for creative arts, tinkering, engineering and outdoor discovery. Families can participate in scheduled programming or explore the interactive areas at their own pace. Staff members and volunteers are also available to play alongside families, modeling questions and activities that help transform play into opportunities for learning.
Parenting Matters has been proud to partner with Soar in 4 since its earliest days. Today, that partnership continues through our Musical Motion class, held at the Soar Lab (check back soon for our fall schedule!). Through music, movement and play, parents and young children strengthen their connection while practicing skills that support healthy development and school readiness.
This collaboration also helps families discover the many resources available throughout our community. Some families may first visit the Lab for Musical Motion and then explore everything else the space has to offer. Others may discover Parenting Matters while attending a Soar Lab activity. It is a wonderful example of what becomes possible when organizations share their strengths and work together on behalf of children and families.
In the accompanying video, Parenting Matters Executive Director Katie Becker speaks with Soar Lab Coordinator Angela Knapek about what families can expect when they visit, the importance of creating an inclusive space and the power of community partnerships.
The Soar Lab is located at 6423 9th Street East in Bradenton. We hope you will watch the interview—and then plan an opportunity to experience this exciting community resource for yourself.
Visit: https://soarin4.org/
