Photos: iruphotos.com
In my previous articles, I’ve explored various aspects of Sarasota life, from its vibrant arts scene to its beautiful landscapes. But as I reflected on my work, I realized I hadn’t yet written about one of the most essential parts of any community—its children and the spaces that nurture their growth. Children are our future, and it's vital to highlight the places designed for young parents and their little ones.
I’m excited to share my visit to The Flock SRQ in downtown Sarasota. (https://theflocksrq.com/). I had the pleasure of meeting one of its co-founders, Dr. Jina. We discussed how The Flock SRQ is a warm, nurturing environment for young minds to explore, learn, and grow. Early childhood is a critical time for development, and spaces like The Flock SRQ provide the perfect setting to foster curiosity, creativity, and social skills in our youngest generation. Provide the ideal setting to encourage our youngest generation's curiosity, creativity, and social skills.
The concept behind The Flock SRQ was born from a clear need that emerged as its founders observed their surroundings. One of the co-founders, Tatiana, had just spent six months on maternity leave, and it became apparent that Sarasota lacked indoor activities for young families, particularly those with children under five years old. Sarasota is known for its parks and beaches. Still, the intense heat limits outdoor play, and there are few alternatives for families looking for a safe, engaging space for their young children—especially those families who have just moved to Sarasota. While excited about their new lives in Florida, these new parents frequently felt isolated, lacking a community and support system. This observation led to the creation of The Flock SRQ, a place for young families to gather, regain energy, and build meaningful connections. The idea for the name came from the symbolism of flamingos—who lose their pink color due to exhaustion after giving birth—highlighting how both parents need community and support to "keep their pink color" and restore their energy.
The Flock SRQ is designed to offer developmental benefits for parents and children, focusing on physical, social, and emotional well-being. Jina and Tatiana, the founders, wanted to create a space fostering parent-child bonding while allowing parents to connect with other caregivers in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. With the belief that “it takes a village to raise a child,” The Flock SRQ emphasizes the importance of community and offers parents a place to share experiences, learn from one another, and grow together.
In January 2024, Sarasota Memorial Hospital welcomed over 400 newborns, but the city still offered little for young families beyond outdoor activities. The Flock SRQ was envisioned as a space where families could participate in open play in a clean, air-conditioned environment and join developmental classes rooted in Montessori principles. The classes aim to enhance imagination and strengthen parent-child bonds during the crucial developmental years between zero and four when children absorb their surroundings and begin forming their identities.
Additionally, The Flock SRQ offers a variety of workshops designed to empower parents with knowledge. From CPR training to speech development and dental care, these workshops provide essential information to help parents navigate early parenthood. Fun events, such as a fire truck day and an upcoming Halloween event, further reinforce the sense of community and togetherness that The Flock SRQ promotes. The focus on children aged zero to four is unique in Sarasota, where activities for this age group are scarce.
Since opening in December 2023, The Flock SRQ has become a home for many young families in the area, and the founders are preparing to celebrate their first anniversary. Looking toward the future, there are plans to expand the concept to other areas, including Lakewood Ranch and Parrish, bringing the sense of community and connection that The Flock SRQ fosters to even more families in Southwest Florida.
Recognizing that many parents don’t have family nearby to rely on, The Flock SRQ provides a crucial support system, which can help reduce feelings of isolation and even combat postpartum depression. Historically, support systems were found in churches or extended family gatherings. Still, with the decline in church attendance and the geographic separation of families, young parents in Sarasota need a place like The Flock SRQ. It’s a space where they can feel supported and understood, regardless of their parenting style or background. The Flock SRQ also embraces foster parents and guardians, offering guidance and a welcoming environment.
The Flock SRQ is open from 9 AM to 7 PM and 9 AM to 4 PM on weekends. Many families visit regularly, and memberships allow them the flexibility to drop by as often as they like. The regular classes cater to different age groups, ensuring children benefit from the consistency needed to develop their skills and creativity through repetition.
As the business grows, The Flock SRQ relies on word of mouth and promotes its activities through Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/theflocksrq/p/C8Xbp8ZxoCN/), Facebook(https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553550983678), and local platforms such as Sarasota Fun for Kids.
It's so fun to see how Sarasota is growing for families! This is exciting!