Today, we’d like to introduce you to Leslie Catlett.
Hi Leslie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started my business, The Penmanship Lab, in 2017 as a homeschooling mom during the week and a part-time Occupational Therapist on weekends.
The idea for the business stemmed from my personal experience and professional background. In the 2010s, I noticed a decline in handwriting instruction in classrooms as digital technology became more prevalent in education. However, when I incorporated handwriting into my son’s homeschool curriculum, I saw a significant improvement in his literacy skills, confidence, and comprehension. This experience highlighted the crucial link between handwriting and literacy, a connection well-supported by research. Despite this, many children were not receiving proper handwriting instruction.
When the Common Core Standards (CCSS) were introduced in 2010, handwriting and cursive writing were no longer required skills. This de-emphasis on handwriting in the curriculum meant many children would miss out on developing an essential skill crucial for fine motor skills and brain development. Writing by hand reinforces reading and language processing skills and allows for a slower thought process.
Understanding the impact of this change, I researched resources available to small businesses and my target audience. I sought educational institutions and programs that could augment formal instruction, such as recreational centers, libraries, and after-school programs.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Starting The Penmanship Lab wasn’t without its struggles. Building my reputation in the market required not only my understanding as a parent of the value of instructional services but also my navigating the challenges of running a business. I faced obstacles, such as funding constraints, marketing hurdles, and the balancing act of managing my time between homeschooling my children and establishing my business.
Despite these challenges, I remained steadfast in my commitment to providing quality service because I deeply believe that every student’s future is important. I understood the concerns of parents firsthand, having been in their shoes, and I made it a priority to listen to their concerns, respect their feelings, and address their needs. By making my services accessible and creating a welcoming environment, I was able to build trust and rapport with the families I served, which has proven instrumental to my success.
In my journey as an entrepreneur, I’ve learned the importance of resilience, adaptability, and perseverance. These experiences have deeply influenced The Penmanship Lab’s values, emphasizing our commitment to excellence and putting our students’ needs first.
As you know, we’re big fans of The Penmanship Lab, LLC. For our readers who might not be as familiar with the brand, what can you tell them about it?
At The Penmanship Lab, we specialize in supporting neurodiverse learners by enhancing their handwriting and fine motor skills. My offerings and services are rooted in over 14 years of experience as an occupational therapist, ensuring that every aspect of my instruction is evidence-based and tailored to meet the unique needs of each student.
Through my personalized approach, I aim to empower students to not only improve their handwriting but also to gain confidence and independence in their learning. I take pride in our systematic methods that engage various cognitive areas, fostering holistic brain development.
My programs are designed to make learning enjoyable and accessible, focusing on fundamental aspects such as letter formations, sizing, and placement. I provide a nurturing environment where students feel supported and encouraged to reach their full potential.
I believe in the importance of handwriting skills in today’s technology-driven world, and I am committed to equipping students with the tools they need to succeed academically and beyond.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
The most important characteristic of my success is my consistent commitment to providing quality service.
This commitment stems from my understanding, as a parent, of the value of instructional services that support children’s needs and development. I prioritize listening to parents’ concerns, respecting their feelings, and ensuring my services are accessible. This approach has been instrumental in building my reputation within the market.
My passion for nurturing children’s handwriting and fine motor skills is central to my work. This commitment drives me to consistently explore innovative teaching methods and provide steady support to each student, aiding in their development of confidence and proficiency.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thepenmanshiplab.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_penmanship_lab/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepenmanshiplab/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-catlett-8420a81b0/
- Other: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xb875RRa9F8QPNXj9
Image Credits
Aaron Taylor Photography
