Today we’d like to introduce you to Tanniesha Franklin.
Hi Tanniesha , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Butterfly Hands started from my passion for helping children feel seen, understood, and confident in their ability to communicate. Through my experiences working with children, I noticed how important it was to meet children where they are and recognize that communication can happen in many different ways, through signs, gestures, speech, visuals, and connection.
As I continue my education to become a speech therapist, my knowledge and passion for communication have continued to grow. I created Butterfly Hands as a way to share accessible tools, adapted sign language, speech tips, and strategies that support children and families beyond the therapy setting.
One of the ways I’ve expanded that mission is through creating resources like the Butterfly Hands ASL coloring book. I wanted to create something that made learning signs more engaging and approachable for children and families while encouraging communication through a fun, interactive experience.
What started as a desire to help children communicate has grown into a brand centered around connection, confidence, and empowerment. My goal with Butterfly Hands is to continue expanding resources that support helping children find their voice, however that voice may look, while giving families tools they can use in everyday moments.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
One of the biggest challenges has been building something from the ground up while still learning and developing as a future speech therapist. I have had to step outside of my comfort zone, continue educating myself, create resources, and find ways to reach families who need these tools.
There have also been moments of doubt, but those moments have pushed me to keep going.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My work is centered around helping people feel supported, understood, and empowered through communication and connection. Outside of Butterfly Hands, I work as a Health Coach, where I support individuals in making positive changes and navigating their health goals. I am also a mom and a speech therapy student, which has shaped the way I approach my work with children and families.
One of the things I am most proud of is creating something that combines my personal experiences, professional growth, and passion for helping others. Being a mom has given me a deeper understanding of the importance of patience, connection, and meeting children where they are.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
Since I recently moved to Houston, I am still discovering everything the city has to offer. What I love most so far is the diversity, the sense of opportunity, and the feeling that there is always something new to explore.
Since I am still new to the city, I am still getting used to some of the challenges especially the traffic and how spread out everything is. But I’m learning my way around and enjoying the process of making Houston feel more like home.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://butterflyhands.org
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/butterfly.hands
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/butterfly.hands
- Other: https://bio.site/ButterflyHands
