12 Easy Steps for Communication with Your Baby Let me guess…your baby is crying uncontrollably and you want to know what he wants so your ears can take a break. No? Maybe, then, you want to learn how to keep that from happening. Well, you’ve come to the right place. Teaching baby sign language to […]
Ludwig Van Beethoven was completely deaf for the last part of his life and yet managed to produce some of the greatest music of all time. Beethoven Articles by Students Who is your favorite person from deaf history? Beethoven by Kimberly Brunner | April 12, 2017 “Oh, I love this song.” My Grandmother smiles and […]
LeRoy Colombo was a famous deaf lifeguard entered into the Guinness Book of World Records for saving 907 lives. Leroy Colombo Articles by Students LeRoy Colombo by Leah Ward (Williamsburg, Virginia, U.S.) | January 4, 2010 LeRoy Colombo was born on December 23, 1905 in Galveston, Texas. He was diagnosed with spinal meningitis when he […]
William Stokoe – or William C. Stokoe Jr. – changed the course of American Sign Language history. Before Stokoe, ASL was not seen as a real language. It was seen as meaningless gestures or pantomime and because of this, ASL wasn’t even considered for use in the education of deaf children–a type of education they […]
Laurent Clerc played a significant part in the history of American Sign Language and was the first deaf teacher of the deaf in America. He was also among the first of these educators in the world and has been known as “The Apostle of the Deaf in America” and “The Father of the Deaf.” Not […]
Laura Redden Searing was born in 1839 and is best known for being the first deaf female journalist. She was sent by the St. Louis Republican to cover the American Civil War in 1860 and lived a life where she never allowed her deafness or age to hold her back. Laura Redden Searing Articles by Students […]
Sean Berdy is a deaf actor, comedian and dancer. He was in Sandlot 2, Legend of the Mountain Man, The Deaf Family, and is best known for his role as Emmett on the hit TV show Switched at Birth. Sean Berdy Articles by Students Sean Berdy by Alex (Buffalo) | May 15, 2014 O.K., O.K., […]
A big event that occurred in Deaf history was the Deaf President Now (DPN) movement. DPN was a huge protest at Gallaudet University that started in March of 1988. The students, faculty, and staff at the university as well as the national deaf community were united and fought together for one clear goal… To finally […]
Julia Brace was a deaf-blind girl who was born before both Laura Bridgman and Helen Keller. She was successfully educated, but lost the credit as the first to Helen Keller. Julia Brace Articles by Students Julia Brace by Anonymous | October 6, 2016 The famous deaf person I choose was Julia Brace. She lived a […]
Heather Whitestone McCallum is known as “Miss Deaf America” (even though Miss Deaf America is a different pageant). She was the first deaf woman to be crowned Miss America in the Miss America pageant. Heather is both beautiful and intelligent, and it’s nice to see that the panelists didn’t discriminate against her because she’s deaf. […]
George Veditz was a former president of the National Association of the Deaf of the United States and was one of the first to film American Sign Language. George William Veditz Articles by Students George Veditz by Alyssa Mattingly | October 20, 2016 “ASL is not just a different language, it is a different medium […]
When Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet died in 1851, his youngest son Edward Miner Gallaudet continued his legacy in deaf education, played a big part in the history of American Sign Language, and founded the first college for the deaf. Edward Miner Gallaudet Articles by Students Who is your favorite person from deaf history? Edward Miner Gallaudet by […]
This ASL dictionary is for you! We have included over 1,000 words and phrases from our Complete 3-Level ASL Course vocabulary lists. This means that if you learn this essential vocabulary from our dictionary, you can start having basic conversations in sign language before you know it! Are you intimidated by massive ASL dictionaries? Then this is the right place to […]
Step 3 – Start Talking Are you ready to start signing? This is so exciting! It’s now time to choose the signs you are going to start with. Go ahead and choose a small handful of signs from the vocabulary link below (be sure to include not only need-based signs but sign that will excite […]
Conversational Phrases To see all of the American Sign Language phrases videos we have, click the link below to visit our comprehensive dictionary: Phrases in ASL => American Sign Language Phrase Videos Below is a list of all the phrases we have available to view at the link above: “Beginning and ending a thought” 11 […]
Step 9 – Advancing Your child is growing and advancing! How exciting! You are now probably combining signs and speech with your child. This can greatly enhance his vocabulary as well as give him the ability to learn new concepts that he may not be able to verbalize. There are many more fun things you […]
Step 6 – More Signs Moving on from basic signs you learned in Step 3, choose some secondary words from the vocabulary link below. Try to branch out a little more from the first words you learned and more closely point out the world your baby is growing into: => Baby Sign Language Vocabulary You […]
ASL 1 – Unit 9 In this unit of the free online sign language classes, you will be learning about verbs. VocabularyJobs & Careers Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these vocabulary words. Vocabulary ACCOUNTANT ACTOR AIRFORCE ARCHITECT ARCHITECT (2) ARMY/MILITARY ARTIST ASSISTANT BASEBALL PLAYER BLOG BOSS BUILDING […]
ASL 1 – Unit 1 In this unit of the free sign language class, you will be learning how to fingerspell. VocabularyFirst Signs Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Good afternoon Good morning Goodbye Goodnight Hello How are you? How are you? […]
ASL 2 – Unit 8 Inflection In this unit of the free sign language classes, you will be learning about inflection. VocabularyHouse & Home Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Excuse me I’m sorry to interrupt, but I have an important message. […]
ASL 2 – Unit 6 Pluralization In this unit of the free sign language lesson, you will be learning about pluralization. Vocabulary Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases. Phrases Is that true? Sorry, I already have plans. What do you think? Who do you live with? […]
ASL 1 – Unit 7 In this unit, you will learn American Sign Language pronouns and how to index. VocabularyFriends & Family Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Are you married? Do you have children? How many siblings do you have? I […]
ASL 3 – Unit 2 Advanced Role Shifting In this unit as you learn American Sign Language, you will be learning advanced role shifting techniques. VocabularyMath & Money Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases 11 + 15 = 26 235 x 12 […]
ASL 1 – Unit 5 In this unit, you will learn ASL word order. Vocabulary Colors, Time, & Routine Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Are you hungry? How did you get here? I have to go home. I took […]
ASL 2 – Unit 12 Final Unit In this unit as you learn ASL, you will be wrapping up what you have learned so far. Conversation Comprehension 12.1 Turn to page 14 in your workbook. In the video below, Deborah and Mark are going to have a conversation. In your workbook, some of the dialogue […]
ASL 2 – Unit 7 Conveying Distance In this unit as you learn asl online, you will be learning how to convey distance. Vocabulary Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases. Phrases I want to introduce you to my friend Julie. My cell phone can email, send […]
ASL 1 – Unit 10 In this unit as you learn sign language free, you will learn about ASL negation. VocabularyEmotions & Character Traits Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases I feel OK. I feel tired. I feel wonderful. Vocabulary ANNOYING ARGUE […]
ASL 1 – Unit 3 In this unit as you learn sign language online, you will learn about the five sign parameters. VocabularySchool & Education Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Are you a student? Are you deaf? Are you learning sign […]
ASL 2 – Unit 10 Object Locations In this unit as you learn sign language online, you will be learning how to sign object locations. Vocabulary Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases. Phrases I put a camera on the top of my front door entrance. My […]
ASL 1 – Unit 2 In this unit, you will be learning American Sign Language numbers and Deaf Culture. VocabularyFood & Drink Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Can you (please) sign slower? Can you (please) sign that again? Can you fingerspell […]
ASL 2 – Unit 9 Room Descriptions In this unit as you start learning American Sign Language, you will be learning how to sign room descriptions. VocabularyTechnology & Household Goods Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases How do you wash your laundry […]
ASL 1 Introduction Learning sign language is so much fun! Unfortunately, many ASL classes are not taught correctly, expensive, and scheduled. The ASL classes on this website are much different. They are organized, straight to the point, fun, free, and at your own pace. Materials you will need for the class ASL 1 WORKBOOK (PDF) […]
ASL 1 – Unit 4 In this unit, you will learn more about the five sign parameters because you are learning sign language online. VocabularyAnimals, Home, & Transportation Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Are your parents Deaf? Can you read lips? […]
ASL 2 – Unit 11 Describing Objects In this unit as you are learning sign language online, you will be learning how to describe objects. Vocabulary Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases. Phrases At the beach we wear sun block, sunglasses, and use an umbrella for […]
ASL 1 – Unit 12 In this unit of the online ASL classes, you will learn the rest of the important ASL numbers. VocabularyAdvanced Numbers Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases How old are you? I am 20 years old. See you […]
ASL 1 – Unit 8 In this unit of the sign language classes, you will learn more about pronouns and directional verbs. VocabularyPhysical Features & Clothing Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these vocabulary words. Vocabulary BALD BEARD BELT BLACK BRACELET BROKEN CLOTHES DIRTY DRESS FAT FAT (2) […]
ASL 3 – Unit 3 Narratives In this unit of the free American Sign Language classes, you will be learning the basics of how to construct narratives. VocabularyLife Events Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Her least favorite person got laid off […]
ASL 3 – Unit 8 Amenities and Features In this unit of the free American Sign Language course, you will be learning how to sign amenities and features. Vocabulary Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases. Phrases Her car is black and has a loud engine. My […]
ASL 2 – Unit 3 Time Duration and Regularity In this unit of the American Sign Language free classes, you will be learning about time duration and regularity. Vocabulary Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases. Phrases Every morning I wake up happy because I sleep all […]
ASL 2 – Unit 4 Temporal Aspect In this unit of the free American Sign Language instruction, you will be learning about temporal aspect. VocabularyActivities & Hobbies Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Could you go to the store and pick me […]
ASL 2 – Unit 1 Sentence Types In this unit of the online sign language lessons, you will be learning more sentence types. VocabularyFood & Drink Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Hockey is the best sport to watch live. How much […]
ASL 1 – Unit 6 In this unit as you learn sign language online, you will be learning about ASL sentence types. VocabularySports & Music Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these vocabulary words. Vocabulary BASEBALL BASKETBALL BASS BOAT BOWLING DANCE DRUMS FALL-DOWN FALL-DOWN (2) FAST FIRST FOOTBALL […]
ASL 3 – Unit 1 Role Shifting In this unit of the American Sign Language online classes, you will be learning how to role shift. Vocabulary Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases. Phrases For this job you will need to check your email and clean your […]
ASL 2 – Unit 5 Classifiers In this unit of the free American Sign Language classes, you will be learning about classifiers. Vocabulary Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases. Phrases Do you mind if I borrow your car? I don’t mind that you borrow the car, […]
ASL 2 – Unit 2 Time Signs In this unit of the ASL online classes, you will be learning about time signs. VocabularySeasons & Holidays Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases How was your weekend? I am a college student and I […]
ASL 3 – Unit 11 Final Unit In this unit of the ASL online classes, we will be wrapping up what you’ve learned in this class. Expression Assignment 3-5 To practice your storytelling expression skills, I want you to use your webcam (or a video camera) and sign your favorite fairy tale. This should be […]
ASL 3 – Unit 4 Accident Narratives In this unit of the free online sign language classes, you will be learning how to sign accident narratives. VocabularyHealth & Medical Care Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases I feel sick with a sore […]
Geronimo Cardano played a significant role in the history of sign language–particularly in the history of deaf education. Cardano was an Italian mathematician and physician. He discovered in the 1500s that the deaf were able to be educated by using written words. Before his theory, people believed that it was impossible for people to learn […]
ASL 3 – Unit 5 Giving Information In this unit as you learn sign language free, you will be learning how to give information. VocabularyGeography & Culture Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases and vocabulary words. Phrases Germany makes the best cars for winter weather and […]
ASL 2 Introduction Learning sign language is so much fun! Welcome to the second class in the Start ASL online curriculum! Materials you will need for the class ASL 2 WORKBOOK (PDF) (Required & Free) – You will use the workbook for the class assignments and activities. ASL 2 Vocabulary Study Sheet (PDF) (Helpful & […]
ASL 3 Introduction Learning sign language is so much fun! Welcome to the third class in the Start ASL online curriculum! Materials ASL 3 WORKBOOK (PDF) (Required & Free) – You will use the workbook for the class assignments and activities. ASL 3 Vocabulary Study Sheet (PDF) (Helpful & Free) – This is a list […]
ASL 3 – Unit 9 Storytelling In this unit as you learning sign language online free, you will be learning how to tell a story. Vocabulary Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these phrases. Phrases “Beginning and ending a thought” Once upon a time Storytelling Storytelling is very […]
ASL 3 – Unit 6 Sign Language Games In this unit of the online sign language classes, you will be learning how to sign sign language games. VocabularyGames Visit the Online Course Vocabulary Category for this unit to view videos of these vocabulary words. Vocabulary GO AHEAD LEADER LOSE NOT ALLOWED NOT ALLOWED (2) NO-WAY […]
ASL 3 – Unit 7 Handshape Stories and Deaf Jokes In this unit of the online ASL classes, you will be learning about handshape stories and Deaf jokes. Conversation Review 7.1 Turn to page 12 in your workbook. In the video below, Crystal, Christine, and Cristian will have a conversation. Answer the questions in your […]
Dr. Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet is probably the most influential person in the history of American Sign Language. Gallaudet, along with Laurent Clerc, was responsible for starting the first free public school for the deaf in the United States. Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet Articles by Students Who is your favorite person from deaf history? Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet […]
No Hearing People Here! Deaf people have been more in the spotlight than you know. There are several famous deaf people who have been the founders of many organizations, been pioneers in deaf education, written books, painted famous artworks, held world records in sports, acted on several well-known television shows, and even started newspapers… Famous […]
Hearing loss is more like “Deafness Gain” to people who are part of Deaf Culture. The loss of hearing is actually a very small part of being a Deaf person. However, it’s very useful to study the implications of deafness when you’re becoming involved in the Deaf community. Most hearing people only see the lack […]
Becoming an American Sign Language interpreter is a very popular choice for many ASL students. People choose to become interpreters because they love American Sign Language, love Deaf people, and enjoy being exposed to a wide variety of interesting subject matter and experiences. Interpreting is a very fun and rewarding career. You get to wake […]
Top 150 Videos – Basic ASL Sign Language Words We have compiled a great collection of videos showing the top 150 basic ASL sign language words. These are the words that you should learn first. Learning the signs for these ASL sign language words is a great way to build a basic vocabulary foundation before […]
Andrew Foster is a very important person in Deaf history. He was the first African American Deaf person to earn a Bachelor’s Degree from Gallaudet University and is known as the “Father of the Deaf” of Africa because he founded the first school for the deaf there and went on to establish 31 more. Andrew […]
Marlee Matlin was born in Morton Grove, Illinois on August 24th, 1965. After she came down with the German Measles at the age of eighteen months, she lost her hearing and became deaf. When she was young, she communicated with her family and friends using sign language. When she was seven years old, Marlee started […]
By: Anonymous Clearly, I can’t choose a favorite, because every one of them are breath-taking! But the person I admire the most is Edward Miner Gallaudet. He continued his father’s legacy, Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet. In 1857, Amos Kendall established a deaf and blind school. When Edward was offered an opportunity to lead the school, he gladly […]
By: Kaylee Perry (05/16/18) The article I chose was “My Deaf Son Fought Speech. Sign Language Let Him Bloom.” by Elizabeth Engelman. The whole article related to her son who was born profoundly deaf. Elizabeth, being a hearing mother, immediately went to see if he was able to get the Cochlear implant surgery. He was […]
By: Catherine Ritchie (07/22/17) The Deaf community has a rich culture with many prominent figures in its history. Some whose names are fairly well known such as Gallaudet and Helen Keller and other’s whom receive less recognition despite their important contributions. My favorite person thus far in Deaf history is one of the latter – […]
Memorizing the American Sign Language alphabet (also known as the American Manual Alphabet) is the first step when learning American Sign Language and most new sign language students rely on fingerspelling from the ASL alphabet when they don’t know the sign for something. Grammatically, fingerspelling is used in ASL for signing proper nouns (people’s names, […]
By: Jennifer Hatley (07/07/17) I find music to be my outlet for so many different things. I chose John Alvin Ray as he was an American singer, songwriter, and pianist. John Alvin Ray made his debut and held his popularity in the 1950s. I find that being able to find and not be afraid to […]
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By: Emily Keller (06/22/17) My favorite deaf person in history would happen to be Ludwig Van Beethoven. I absolutely love music, and art, and to know that the famous Beethoven was deaf, yet still wrote the most intricate and melodious music will never cease to amaze me. We know that we hasn’t always deaf, but […]
By: Rozelyn Wisen (06/19/17) I have been thinking about this assignment for awhile now and contemplating who I felt was the most interesting and made the most impact on deaf culture. At first I was interested in writing about Abbe Charles-Michel de l’Epee and his contribution to deaf education and the developement of Sign Language, […]
By: Jack (04/07/17) Teresa de Cartagena was a nun in 15th Century Spain. She is remarkable for being Spain’s first feminist writer as well as for being deaf and writing positively about it. Teresa went deaf in her late twenties/early thirties. She was devastated by this, thinking that God was punishing her despite her devotion […]
By: Cynthia Brainerd (02/27/17) Regina Olson Hughes (1895-1993) became fully deaf at the age of 14, due to the effects of scarlet fever. She could still speak fluently, but had to find new ways of communicating with the world around her. She attended the famous Gallaudet College where she later lived for 30 years, married […]
By: Steph Grizzard (02/24/17) I don’t know if I can pick a favorite person to influence deaf history. It is such a rich history and the culture is what it is today because of all of them together. Abbe de L’Epee founded the first public deaf school and used all of the signs that the […]
By: Marcus McNeal (11/29/16) “Everybody has to start somewhere. You have your whole future ahead of you. Perfection doesn’t happen right away.” (Haruki Murakami, 2006). The quote speaks a lot to the person who I’ve chosen to write about, who is known as Pedro Ponce de Leon. A 16th century Spanish Monk, Ponce de Leon […]
By: David Cooper (10/13/16) The deaf person wrote about was Kevin Lucas Smire who was also known as “Deaf Kev.” He was born on October 28, 1996 and is 19 years old. I picked him because I love music so I searched for hours looking for a deaf musician and I found this guy. He […]
By: Jamie Saults (05/18/2016) I am writing about Alexander Graham Bell because I thought it interesting that he fought so hard for the deaf community and even married a deaf person, yet also thought that deaf people weakened society. His beliefs led to a debate in the form of communication used by the deaf and […]
By: Karri Kimery (08/18/2016) As I was reading about people in the deaf community, I came across Matt and Kay Daigle. These two met in 1993, at Deaf/Hearing touring theater company where they were both cast members. These two are comedy partners. While they were at a cartooning convention in Missouri, Kay approached Matt concerning […]
By: Hanna England (09/15/16) My favorite person from Deaf History is Alexander Graham Bell. Graham was born on March 3, 1847, and later died on August 2, of 1922. Although Bell is mainly known for his invention of the telephone, he also is known as the father of oralism in Deaf history. Alexander grew up […]
By: Kanesha Gittens (08/27/16) I chose to do my paper on Edward Miner Gallaudet. The reason I chose Gallaudet was because we have the same birthday. That had me interested and finding out more about him. He was an extraordinary man who had a dream of doing more in life. Which for some years he […]
By: Natalie Picone (08/27/16) In 1926 at the age of 19, Gertrude Ederle was the first woman to swim across the English Channel. Twenty-one miles from Dover, England to Cape Griz-Nez. Gertrude was born to German immigrants in New York City on October 23, 1905. She was one of five children. Ederle did not learn […]
Canada, Mexico, United Kingdom, and Any Others If you’re looking for Deaf events in countries other than the US or want to post your own, you’ve come to the right place! To Search Deaf events in your country, use your browser’s Find ability (CTRL+F) to search for your country’s name on the page. To Post […]
If you’re looking for Deaf events in the southern United States or want to post your own, you’ve come to the right place! To Search Deaf events in your state, use your browser’s Find ability (CTRL+F) to search for your state’s name on the page. To Post Deaf events in your state, leave a comment […]
If you’re looking for Deaf events in the mid-western United States or want to post your own, you’ve come to the right place! To Search Deaf events in your state, use your browser’s Find ability (CTRL+F) to search for your state’s name on the page. To Post Deaf events in your state, leave a comment […]
If you’re looking for Deaf events in the northeastern United States or want to post your own, you’ve come to the right place! To Search Deaf events in your state, use your browser’s Find ability (CTRL+F) to search for your state’s name on the page. To Post Deaf events in your state, leave a comment […]
If you’re looking for Deaf events in the western United States or want to post your own, you’ve come to the right place! To Search Deaf events in your state, use your browser’s Find ability (CTRL+F) to search for your state’s name on the page. To Post Deaf events in your state, leave a comment […]
by Triniti (Washington) Helen Keller is my personal favorite deaf person. I was completely astounded when I heard her story. As a second or third grader, I simply couldn’t imagine not being able to see or hear. She is to this day my idol, and one of the many reasons that I have continued to […]
by Annaleise I had to pick both Laura Bridgmn and Helen Keller because both are amazing women who did amazing things. Before Deaf Culture was actually recognized as something every Deaf person had difficulties being educated and accepted into society. However these lady’s found a way to be educated and to learn to communicate with […]
by Melissa Ratsch (Spokane, WA) This is played just like the game of telephone but you use signs instead of talking. You have the students line up in equal groups, at least 5-6 people per line. The first person in each line faces the teacher while all the others in line turn their backs. The […]
by Lisa I’m going to talk about someone here who first opened my eyes to sign language, and that is the actress Louise Fletcher. Louise Fletcher most famously played Nurse Ratched in the movie One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. I have always been a huge movie fan, and have, since I can remember, stayed […]
by T. Brown (Humble, TX) If you like telephone you would will like this game. Instructions: 1st (2) lines. Then explain that the person in front of you will turn and tap the person in front. Once they are face to face both will have their EYES shut,(NOTE: CAN USE HEAR PLUGS) the leader will […]
by Vickie (La Verkin, UT, USA) Is it possible to have more than one favorite in deaf history? I am in awe of the people throughout history (and even today) who gave their all to make a difference in someone else’s life. There are those who became interested in helping their own children and ended […]
by Keana (Colorado ) Juan Pablo de Bonet is my favorite person to go down in the Deaf community history because all he did. He established many schools, made some signs for his deaf child and the schools he established as well as teaching them, he was a hearing man that really connected with the […]
by Heather Jensen Scientists have found that the muscles in children’s fingers and hands are develop faster than the ones in their mouth and jaw, which has made baby sign language popular. Teaching your nonverbal child or child who struggles to communicate with sign language can be a great way to give them a voice […]
by Nanette Kaufmann (Kissimmee, Florida) Award winning actress and advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities. Her honors representing the handicapped are many, including the President’s Distinguished Service-vice Award and the Eleanor Roosevelt Humanitarian Award. She and Helen Keller are the only women to receive the Public Service Award from the American Academy of […]
I Can Only Imagine (in ASL) by Kevin Loveland “American Honey” by Lady Antebellum, cover by Mike and Lane by Lane (Moorhead, MN USA) Too Much Time on My Hands – Styx by soph1951 This Is The Day by Planetshakers by Rock Church Deaf Ministry (San Diego, CA, USA) Nemes – Butterfly by Josh K. […]
by Alan (Sodus, NY USA) Yes Bell ! The deaf wife of Alexander Graham Bell. She met “Alec” as a 15 year old medically deaf student in his oralism school. And the story begins in MAKE A JOYFUL SOUND, the authorized biography of Mabel and Alec by Helen Elmira Waite. I fear this history has […]
by Anonymous David at Sun Valley – 1980 David Michalowski, profoundly deaf since birth, grew up in Chicago, IL. He competed at the United States Figure Skating National Championships from 1978 until 1982, including the 1980 Winter Olympic Trials, and at four international competitions from 1980 until 1982, including the Winter World University Games twice. […]
by Anne (Richmond VA) Dr. McCullough She is the first Deaf psychologist to set up a counseling business. She makes counseling services accessible to Deaf people all over the states. Her Bio Dr. McCullough is a Deaf psychotherapist, licensed in Maryland and the District of Columbia. She holds certifications as an Approved Clinical Supervisor and […]
There are so many deaf dating sites available on the internet that it can be difficult to find the right one. Most deaf dating sites cater to deaf and hard of hearing people, so if you are a hearing ASL student, you should look into these sites further to find one where you might fit […]
by Rick Whited (Grand Terrace, California) I’m with others in noting that all of these individuals played a significant role in the history of sign language – some from a positive perspective, others from a negative. What more can be said of L’Epee and the Gallaudet’s? Even Bell thought he was progressing the education and […]
by Anonymous Braam Jordaan Braam Jordaan was born profoundly Deaf to Deaf parents in Benoni, Johannesburg. He has achieved outstanding art recognition both locally and internationally. After graduating from TAS, he worked for several high-end film and animation companies on high-end projects for BMW, Coronation, Nampak, Mitsubishi, Yardley, Musica, World Wildlife Fund, Rabea Tea, American […]
by Nicki B (Wisconsin) I can’t really choose one to identify with. There are so many people who made contributions to sign language becoming what it is today. People that were blessed with hearing took it upon themselves to learn ASL and want to communicate with deaf people. I find that amazing. These people in […]
by Nicki (Canada) After reading this article, as well as the other available ones on this site and a few from another ASL book I am reading I have come to the conclusion that I can’t choose one person in deaf history as my favourite. I have to say that they all have their goods […]
by Amber Waite (Utah, US) These videos have been a great way to help both my deaf and hearing children learn signs. It’s been great to help my hearing children to communicate with their sister and also to help my deaf daughter to be able to identify more things through sign. The signs are presented […]
by Hannah (Indiana) Lou has been an inspiration to many deaf, he played the Hulk in the original series, he also appeared in “I love you, Man” and appeared as himself in “The King of Queens” and also performed in Hercules. Lou was also a body builder and worked closely with former governor of California, […]
by Kristyn Murray (Houston, TX) Joseph Henry Sharp was one of the founding members of the Taos Society of Artists, a group that produced some of the most significant artwork in American history. Born in 1859, he became Deaf after an incident where he almost drowned in a river at the age of 12. By […]
by Cliona (Canada) The Likeness of 9 year-old Alice Cogswell Despite a short life, Alice Cogswell led a life well-lived. I admire her greatly because she did not allow society to tell her that being deaf in the 1820’s somehow made you less than human. Alice was born in 1805, and contracted “spotted fever” (most […]
by Sara Huang (Taipei, Taiwan) I have read a lot about the oppression of the Deaf, but I really appreciate people who have embraced Deaf culture and have a passion for studying the social fabric of Deaf people in other countries. Joel Barish has traveled the globe and has been filmed with Deaf people from […]
by Rebecca Wenger (PA, US) A Religious ASL dictionary? Really? Yep. As the front cover claims, Elaine Costello’s Religious Signing is “the first and only interdenominational guide to Religious Signing”. Look for the most recently revised and updated version, published in 2009. It contains a generous introduction that covers topics which include the influence of […]
by Anonymous Most teachers already know this one. In fact, I am sure I learned it when I was a newbie student myself. 1. Set up the board, powerpoint, overhead, etc. (whatever you got) just like a hangman word. 2. No one, not even the instructor, is allowed to use their voice. 3. Students raise […]
by Megan (Arizona) My favorite person from deaf history would probably be Geronimo Cardano because he was the first person to recognize that just because a person was deaf didn’t mean that they were also incapable of learning. Before this discovery, deaf people were written off as stupid and (this breaks my heart) “non-persons” because […]
by Abigail Endsley (Houtson, TX, United States of America) Unfortunately, I feel almost materialistic for deciding that Heather Whitestone is my favorite person mentioned on this page. Although, my choice was not made simply because she was beautiful and successful. No, my choice was made because of her attitude and humility. Heather not only did […]
by Lexi (Las Vegas) There are so many inspirations in this world, but deaf people inspire me the most. I see deaf people as equals, but much more courageous. The things they overcome just amazes me. Helen Keller surprises me. I can’t imagine being neither deaf nor blind and she was both. And graduating college! […]
by Deanna Basile (Fairbanks, Alaska) I learned this game at a Silent Weekend when I was in the interpreter program. Lots of fun! Have the class get into groups of 2 or 3, and hand each group a different Hand Shape card (I photocopied hand shapes from a book and cut them out, but there […]
by John A. Scott (Vidor, TX United States) Heather Whitestone is my favorite person from deaf history simply because she really did prove, just like Beethoven, that a deaf person can in fact pull things off easily if given a chance. For instance, according to doctors, I have been hearing impaired since the day I […]
by Amber Waite (Utah, US) This video stars Linda Bove, who has been on Sesame Street many times. She is a deaf actress and she says in the introduction to the video that as a child she always wanted a story signed to her. So she wants to accomplish that in the video. I love […]
By Anonymous Author of What’s that Pig Outdoors? and other novels based on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan locales. Deaf all his life, blogger, professional editor and writer for Chicago newspaper, humorist. Webmaster Comments: Thank you so much for adding Henry Kisor to this list! I thought I might add a little bit more information […]
by Olivia (USA) This is a difficult choice, who is MY favorite. They are all amazing people, who have done so much to help the deaf and learn about the deaf, and create sign language, and make sign language what it is today. Not to mention, help us hearing ones, learn of the deaf and […]
by Carol (White Cloud, MI ) I am not sure I could pick one person that is a favorite at this time. I have already learned so many interesting things from deaf history that are not only educational, but shocking. As a full hearing person, I was taught that Helen Keller was the first deaf […]
by Anonymous All of the individuals in this article are all important. Without them, sign language, and potentially the deaf society wouldn’t be the way that it is today. I only have great appreciation for the history and culture that they have provided and encouraged. I was completely ignorant to this culture in the deaf […]
by Anonymous Village on Taro River by Oreste Carpi I am not deaf, but have been allowed the chance to come across this amazing language, and have started learning it at my school. However I never really took the time to analyze the culture, or the people who’ve founded it. It’s amazing how far these […]
by Karen Arnold (Hamilton, IN USA) The persons that I feel contributed most to the advancement of communication with and for the Deaf is GOD because he gave the Deaf, their desire to express themselves and to be understood.As a hearing person, I learned to express myself through hearing others talk. For most people (hearing) […]
by Roberta Cooke (PA, US) I have just begun learning American Sign Language but I have found that The American Sign Language Phrase Book by Lou Fant and illustrated by Betty G. Miller (published by Contemporary Books), to be a fun and useful book. The book includes chapters such as: Everyday Expressions, Signing and Deafness, […]
by Janeel Hew (Hawaii) Understanding the past, helps us to embrace the present. Finally an online class, that teaches you that learning ASL means more than knowing how to bend your fingers. We miss the colors of the rainbow when we are only able to see the black and white. If you are thinking about […]
by Kamalakannan (India) Thomas Alva Edison Another famous deaf person is Thomas Alva Edison who was born on February 11, 1847. He was an American scientist, inventor, and businessman. However, many people don’t know that Edison had a hearing loss since childhood and reportedly lost more of his hearing and became technically deaf in his […]
by Cheri Witmer (Anaconda, MT) This may not be my favorite person, and as little as I have read on deaf history I don’t feel like I can pick just one, so these are just a few of my thoughts…Ever since I was taught the alphabet in sign language I fell in love with it. […]
by Brenda Dawe, NAD IV interpreter and ASL instructor, Kirtland CC (Roscommon, MI) Brenda the Bridge Lou Fant, CODA, is my favorite historical figure. Unlike Stokoe, he could sign, had a Deaf heart and spent his life making services for the Deaf include interpreters. He was instrumental in establishing the Registry of Interpreters of the […]
by Janeel Hew (Hawaii) Hands that speak all I needed to hear. In history, time spans endlessly. I, on the other hand, need go back only 40 years to find my favorite person of Deaf Culture in my life. I wish that I could tell you his name, but I never knew it. I did […]
by Amanda (Greenville, SC) It was not until I read this history lesson that I realized how difficult is must have been growing up deaf. I have been hearing all my life, but I fell in love with a hearing impaired boy in high school. We dated for five years and then married. I knew […]
by Maggie (Pasadena, Md) I would have to say that my favorite person is my daughter. I was her teacher for the past twelve years and I must say that she was a very good student. She took her schooling to heart and learned everything I taught her. Even though I wasn’t the greatest teacher, […]
by Grace (Canada) Malibu Coast Spring by Granville Redmond My favorite deaf historical figure is Granville Redmond. His struggle to be accepted by the common man is fairly touching, and his paintings are simply out of this world! Throughout his life, he accomplished much more than most do. Aside from creating a wealth of inspiring, […]
by Tiffany (Pinon Hills CA USA) I came to be on this site because my nephew decided that he wanted to learn ASL. We are both martial arts instructors and plan on opening a school soon. A family came in and their son was totally deaf but wanted to learn karate and there was no […]
by Rebeca (Redding, Ca.) I do not find Alexander Graham Bell to be inspirational or admirable in this case, and yet I must say he is my favorite historical figure. Mr. Bell’s futile attempts to make the deaf community conform was condescending and ignorant. His interest in “helping” the deaf of his time was, in […]
by Robyn Bell (Toledo, WA USA) As a young man L’Epee had certain expectations given to him by the people around him. His father was a well-know architect and probably wanted a great many things from his son. L’Epee decided to study theology. Not a great career choice, but at least something with honor. The […]
by Joseph Heenan (Frankston, Australia) The 48 year old Australian named Robert Hoskin is a well-known deaf filmmaker who has won several film awards from his short films shot in 35mm film format intended for festival screening some years ago. He has expertised in 35mm film making activities for nearly 20 years out of his […]
by Anonymous Rodger Young was a deaf man who faked his Army hearing test in World War II. He won a Posthumous Medal of Honor in the Soloman Islands. Rodger Young was a member of the United States National Guard with the rank of sergeant. However, before going to war in World War II, he […]
by Debra Stephens (Quebec, Canada) I really like this booklet it is small, 4 x 9 inches and 25 pages long. It offers over 200 signs and is not very large to take along with me in the car or on the bus. Its’ mission is communication. It offers easy to learn illustrated signs of […]
by Amber Waite (Utah, US) This book was recommended as the manual for my American Sign Language class at the School for the Deaf in St. George Utah. I really appreciate the vocabulary of the book, but even more I feel that the grammatical guide has been the most helpful in guiding me as I […]
by Rebecca Wenger (PA, US) To those learning American Sign Language, it can never hurt to have several ASL dictionaries. In doing so, you can confirm signs, examine different forms of a sign, and recognize the slight tweaks that different states may place on a sign. This dictionary is one that you should defiantly consider […]
by Brenda Dawe (Michigan) SIGNO is a sign language game like Bingo except that the headings are handshapes. I have a template which students take and fill in with 5 handshapes (of the 11 basic ones I also include in separate handout). The 25 spaces (no free spots) are then filled in with signs under […]
by Samantha (Vermont) I do not believe Helen Keller is the most important person in Deaf History, but I do believe she inspired me the most. I have learned quite a bit about Helen Keller since I was first introduced to her life in the fifth grade. I have glasses, and I am hard of […]
by Christi (Charleston, WV) This article was very interesting to read. I would have to say my favorite person is Abbe de L’Epee. In reading his story I can see that he truly was a follower of Christ. Christ is our example and Christ became a servant to mankind and gave his life that we […]
by Anonymous He is not my favorite. He is the one most interesting to me. He is interesting because he had a deaf parent, married a deaf individual, and had deaf children yet he was so against the development of the deaf community. I often wonder why he spent his whole life fighting to get […]
by Roberta Cooke (PA, US) Martin L.A. Sternberg’s, American Sign Language Dictionary is an excellent resource. The revised edition, copyrighted in 1998 and published by Harper Perennial (Harper Collins Publishers, Inc.) states that it contains over 1,500 new illustrations. I recently started studying ASL and have thoroughly enjoyed every minute and I wanted to purchase […]
by Robin Brenner (Alaska, US) I really enjoy using this DVD for working on receptive skills. I think it’s good for anyone who’s learning ASL or wanting to become an interpreter. It’s really helpful because it’s broken down into chapters that are easy to follow at your own pace. There are many useful activities to […]
by Christie Busselle (Missouri) “The Miracle Worker” has always been one of my favorite movies. Even when Melissa Gilbert did the remake of it with Patty Duke switching from Helen’s role to Anne’s role. In both movies I felt Anne’s character was the star. She was a woman who, despite her handicap, showed a determination […]
by Patricia (Salt Lake City, UT, USA) William Hoy was a very bright man. After completing his high school education, he set up a shoe repair shop and played baseball on the weekends. He was so talented and played so intelligently that he progressed to playing professionally, even in Major League Baseball. He established a […]
by Melissa Gschwend (Benson, AZ USA) I can’t say for sure that I have a favorite person from Deaf History. So many people played such wonderful roles in the support and progress of the Deaf. I remember well the Deaf lady that won the Miss America Pageant. I have watched the Helen Keller movie and […]
by Amanda C. (Modesto, ca, usa) I’d have to say that my favorite person that I have been introduced to has to be William Hoy, the baseball player. I myself do not know any deaf people or have much interaction with many people in my community that are deaf. However I do work for a […]
by Brenda Dawe (Michigan) Divide group into 3 and line up right angle to blackboard Vocab cards (scattered upside down on table at left of Line 1) are selected in turns, signed to front person in group 2 who then writes the word on the board. When word is written, front person in line 3 […]
by Coco (Texas) In our stream-line schools today in America we virtually do not learn anything of deaf history. We learn of wars and slavery and discoveries, but not about deaf people. As a hearing person, I think the only deaf person I had ever heard of in school was Helen Keller. Her story was […]
by CCR (PR) This is an unfair question because Deaf History has too many great persons to only choose one. If I had to choose it would be a tie between Pedro Ponce de Leon, Juan Pablo de Bonet and Abbe Charles Michel de L’Epee. I believe these inspiring individuals took it upon themselves to […]
by Ivory Henson (Arizona, US) As with the Signing Time DVD Series, the Baby Signing Time DVD Series is a great way to introduce american sign language to your little ones. These DVDs have fun songs and a lot of colorful images of babies and children playing that babies and toddlers love. They showcase signs […]
by Emma Hill (Seaside Oregon) It was so neat to read about William Hoy. I hadn’t known about him until reading this account of deaf history, which is really well written by the way. It was short, but so full of pertinent information. I think you’re absolutely right, it is amazing that he’s not better […]
by Belinda Well, I really don’t have a favorite person from deaf history. I do love reading about deaf history and all they have gone through. Each story about each person is amazing to me. I went to a church many years ago where the pastor’s wife taught some beginning ASL classes. ASL is so […]
By Anonymous Bob Hiltermann Founder of Deaf West Theater (Fountain Theater) in North Hollywood California. All My Children, Children of a Lesser God, Cold Case. Drummer for the only Deaf Band Beethoven’s Nightmare. Teacher of American Sign Language in Mission Hills California. Actor as himself in documentary movie – Through Deaf Eyes. Actor as himself […]
by Greta D’Amico (Auburn, CA, USA) I would have to say that there are three categories of people that really stand out to me as heroes for the Deaf. First, those dedicated souls who didn’t give up on their deaf students. I am especially impressed with Dr. Samuel Gridley Howe, who was so determined to […]
by Heather (Liberty, MO, USA) I know that Alexander Graham Bell is a very controversial figure in Deaf culture, understandably. I can also see how his invention isolated an already oppressed people group–the entire deaf community for many years. However, I think it is amazing how his invention has come full-circle. Without the invention of […]
by John W Dudley (Corpus Christi TX) Born 1933 on a black land farm near Penelope Texas raised by Deaf Grandparents and grew up with deaf siblings, family and friends. Most of whom attended The State School for the Deaf in Austin Texas. Who is my favorite – WOW! But one I will always remember […]
by Annie (plattsmouth nebraska usa) I believe the person I admire most in the history of the deaf would have to be a person who was not deaf at all but a person who had a tremendous impact on a persons life who was deaf and on many who are not deaf, Anne Sullivan. From […]
by Maggie Walker (Nashville, TN, USA) The person I find most interesting in ASL history is Heather Whitestone. Women in general are so often put down because of looks, body figures, and other nonsense. It’s even worse for deaf women. Not only do they already have all the regular weight from society on their shoulders, […]
by Debbie I am taking intro to sign in school and we play a few sign language games that are a lot of fun. Memory – At the beginning of the game everyone draws a few (3 or 4) cards from a deck of vocab word cards. Person one signs their word, then person two […]
by Rebecca Wenger (PA, US) “Deaf kids are just as smart as hearing kids. With sign language, deaf kids can do anything.” Said by Lynn Spradley. While she can say that now, it was a long journey in getting there. Deaf Like Me is written in a story form that sweeps you into the traumatic […]
by Jenna (WA) Honestly, I don’t think I could choose one person to be my favorite of all Deaf people. I mean, after all, the reason we have Deaf History is because of the people. Before studying up on Deaf History, I never knew how many people were subject to the great changes made by […]
by Anonymous I was surprised to read that President Lincoln played a role in deaf history. This is something that isn’t mentioned in American history. I know most Americans wouldn’t care about legislation allowing college degrees to be issued from a Deaf college. Maybe that is why I find history boring they don’t include interesting […]
by Aurora To be honest, I can’t really choose a favourite person from Deaf history since I am just now learning and getting involved with ASL. I can only say that I admire and respect all those who have helped bring knowledge and acknowledgment to deaf people’s culture and need for recognition. Oppression of any […]
by Kristin McGinnis (California, US) I added this to my materials for my ASL 1/2 class. The book itself is set up in logical chapters with short articles interwoven throughout. What I really like is that they not only have the “master” word, but other words that have the same meaning, which cuts down a […]
Ear anatomy is not as complex as you might think. There are only a few anatomical parts that make hearing possible. However, if there is something wrong with any one of those small pieces, you can lose your hearing completely. The ear is made up of three parts–the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear. […]
As you are learning sign language, you need to master the skill of American Sign Language fingerspelling (spelling out words by hand one letter at a time). In American Sign Language, fingerspelling is used to indicate places, names, or ideas for which there is no official sign. Fingerspelled words can also be used if you […]
Step 8 – Taming Stress Signing, like I said before, is great for preventing tantrums with your baby. Signing helps eliminate the frustration your child feels when she can’t communicate. For example, when your child is frantically waving her arms in the air and signing “help” to you, you would sign “help” back while asking […]
We found all the best ones! We have searched for the best sign language books, checked them out, and read their reviews. All of the best sign language books we’ve found are listed below. Fortunately, we found a whole bunch of them. Some of these sign language books are good for use in the classroom […]
Below is a high quality printable free sign language chart image and PDF. Download PDF Now“Free Basic Sign Language Chart” (Keep in mind that you will need Adobe Reader in order to view the PDF. You can get it free here.) This American Sign Language chart outlines a few common signs that may help with […]
Great Ideas for that Perfect Gift! I remember going to my first Deaf Expo and discovering all the incredible sign language gifts that are out there in the world. I couldn’t believe that I didn’t find them before! If you want to give a special gift to a Deaf person or a friend or relative […]
It’s not uncommon to see a dog leading and assisting a blind person. You have probably seen a few of those trained dogs during the course of your life. But have you ever noticed a dog helping a deaf person? Yes, it’s true; dogs can be trained to assist deaf people. These hearing dogs are […]
During my studies at California State University, Northridge, I took a class called Issues in the Deaf Community. I remember a comment my Deaf professor made regarding a hearing test. My Issues in the Deaf Community class usually covered issues regarding the oppression of deaf people. This comment about the testing of hearing was no […]
ASL 3 – Unit 10 Interpreting Songs in ASL In this unit of the free American Sign Language lessons, you will be learning how to interpret songs in ASL. Interpreting Songs in ASL One of the most fun ways to use ASL is in the interpretation of songs. Songs interpreted into ASL aren’t used very […]
These books are absolutely necessary to learn about Deaf culture! There is no way that we can teach you everything you need to know about the history of Deaf culture and Deaf culture on this website. You can read our Deaf Culture page, but that doesn’t hold a candle to everything you can learn from […]
Step 2 – Getting Started The first thing you will do before you start teaching your infant sign language is pick the signs you are going to begin with. I suggest picking a handful of signs. Most parents choose signs that have to do with eating like “eat,” “drink,” or “milk.” Throw in some fun […]
Irish Sign Language (ISL) is the sign language used in Ireland (primarily in the Republic of Ireland). ISL is also used in Northern Ireland, but British Sign Language (BSL) is used there as well. ISL is more similar to American Sign Language and French Sign Language than British Sign Language and is not related to […]
Japanese Sign Language (JSL), to me, is truly amazing. I am fascinated even by the Japanese language, so this signed language really interests me. JSL is the sign language used in Japan… Bet you didn’t guess that. Just like how Japanese is completely different from English, JSL is completely different from ASL. For one, JSL […]
There is a common myth that I must try to destroy every time someone asks… ASL is NOT universal. We cannot tell you how many times we’ve been asked (and sometimes even told) about this myth. Just like the thousands of different languages of the world–there are several different signed languages. We think this fact […]
ASL 1 – Unit 14 Did You Enjoy the Class? Share Your Experience! Congratulations! You have completed the StartASL.com ASL 1 class! I hope that you have learned everything you have wanted to learn in ASL 1 and that you enjoyed learning sign language online free. Many new ASL students are very interested to know […]
ASL 1 – Unit 13 In this unit of the sign language course, I will be quizzing you on what you have learned so far. This unit is a cumulative review of everything you have learned so far. You will be quizzed on numbers, vocabulary, comprehension, and expression. Vocabulary Visit our ASL 1 Vocabulary Review […]
Using sign language flashcards is a great way to retain the ASL you’re learning. We have had a great time using flash cards while learning ASL and below are some of our favorites. Please note that when you choose to purchase through the external links on this website (in many but not all cases) we […]
Step 1 – Introduction Yes, you need to read an introduction before starting. This will just give you a background about why sign language for babies is so effective. Baby Signing Myths First, I want to list some myths about teaching your baby sign language: Signing with your baby is a new fad. Your baby […]
There are many different American Sign Language symbols and letters that are used in a variety of ways. There are symbols used for writing ASL signs, glossing ASL sentences, and fingerspelling in ASL. Symbols for Writing ASL Signs American Sign Language symbols were developed in order to write how ASL signs are signed. This is […]
We found all the best ones! We have searched for all the best sign language videos. We have checked them out and read their reviews. There really are a lot of good ones to choose from! The videos on this page were carefully selected and are our recommendations to you if you absolutely must buy […]
Spanish Sign Language is a sign language that I really didn’t know anything about until now. I really wish there was a class that touched on international signed languages, such as this one, while I was studying Deaf Studies. SSL is the sign language used in Spain. Just like how Spanish is completely different […]
Swedish Sign Language (TSP) is the sign language used in Sweden. TSP did not stem from any other sign languages, but it did influence Finnish Sign Language (FSL) and Portuguese Sign Language (PSR). It has been in use since 1800 and in 1809, the first deaf school in Sweden was established. Swedish Sign Language was […]
If you absolutely must buy one… …buy one of these! We have searched and searched for the best American Sign Language software. We have checked them out and read the reviews of others. Sadly, there aren’t that many good ones out there. But, we can say that the ones listed below are recommended. Please note […]
Step 10 – Your Growing Child If your child has begun to speak, you may notice that she stops using many signs. At this point, some parents will stop using sign language because they have gotten what they wanted–a preverbal form of communication with their child. However, some parents continue to teach their toddler sign […]
Back in the day, deaf people would drive all the way to their friends’ homes to talk to them. Then, the TTY was invented. Back then, it was called a TDD (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf). A teletypewriter looks like a word processor. It has a keyboard and a display screen. They actually look pretty […]
Auslan (Australian Sign Language) is a beautiful language. Well, all signed languages are beautiful to me, but this one holds a special place in my heart. When I was 12 years old, I was blessed enough to be able to visit Australia for 16 days. While I was there, I truly wish I would have […]
Step 11 – Finding More Signers Getting connected with other parents who teach their babies sign language can truly be a great thing. Not only do you have some support, but you can also make great friends. When you get together, you will be able to share strategies and progress. You can even learn new […]
We have searched for the best baby sign language books, checked them out, and read their reviews. All of the best baby sign language books we’ve found are listed below. Fortunately, we found a whole bunch of them. Please note that when you choose to purchase through the external links on this website (in many […]
Step 12 – Conclusion Many parents buy a baby sign language DVD or many books to learn what you have learned in these 12 steps. You have learned so much already without buying either of those! However, if you do wish to learn more than what we have offered here, we highly recommend buying one. […]
Step 4 – When Things Don’t Go the Way You Planned You may encounter some friends or family that don’t believe in baby signing. Skeptical friends and family can definitely depress your excitement. They may quote the myths we told you about earlier or tell you that signing with your baby will never work. All […]
Step 7 – Sign Combinations Babies will often start to combine vocal words (the baby talk begins!) as they progress in their learning. This is the same for signing children. If you sign with your baby long enough, and even when he becomes a toddler, he will most likely start combining signs. This may happen […]
British Sign Language is my favorite second signed language. BSL is the sign language used in the United Kingdom (UK). I get tingles every time I see their two-handed manual alphabet. BSL is related to Australian Sign Language (Auslan) and New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL). These three signed languages descended from the same parent language […]
Chinese Sign Language (CSL) has been developing mostly since the late 1950’s and its signs are like written Chinese characters. CSL has several dialects with Shanghai being the most common. Even though the first deaf school using CSL was founded in 1887 by C.R. Mills, an American missionary, and his wife, CSL was not influenced […]
Lip-reading is rather unsuccessful (only an average of 20% understanding). Closed captioning, however, takes all the lip-reading out of watching television! You have probably watched television. And you have probably pressed a button on your remote that makes white words with a black background pop up on your screen (either on purpose or by accident). […]
Step 5 – Caregivers Some parents who use baby sign language stay at home with their children while others leave for work. If you are working away from home, you most likely leave your baby with a caregiver or family member. If your baby’s caregiver is not involved in the signing process, this may be […]
Many people wonder how deaf people are able to wake up if they can’t hear an alarm. However, with the advent of new technology for the deaf, waking up is no longer a problem for deaf people. So, how do they do it? With what you may call a “deaf alarm clock,” of course! […]
…are really hard to come by! We have searched for all the best Deaf art books. We have checked them out and read their reviews. Sadly, there aren’t that many to choose from. But, we can say that the ones listed below are recommended. Please note that when you choose to purchase through the external […]
Below you will find all of our Deaf articles on the site. Deaf Culture Below are all of our Deaf articles related to Deaf culture: Deaf Culture – A breakdown of the language, values, and behaviors of Deaf Culture. The Deaf Community and How You Can Get Involved – Learn about the Deaf community and […]
Educating the deaf is a hot topic, and these books are indispensable! We have searched and searched for the best Deaf education books to share with you. The education of the deaf has always been a hot topic in the Deaf community, and learning the ins and outs of this education is very important. We […]
Learn more about Deaf history than you ever wanted to know! If you are learning ASL and planning to be a part of the Deaf community, you have to know about Deaf history. You can read our history of sign language page, but that doesn’t hold a candle to everything you can learn from these […]
Here are some of the best deaf jokes we’ve heard over the years: Deaf Jokes – Motel A deaf couple check into a motel and go to bed early. The wife wakes her husband in the middle of the night complaining of a headache. She asks him to go to the car to get some […]
To learn more about products for the deaf, like hearing aids, visit our Hearing Loss page. Great sign language products are hard to come by. There are tons of ASL books, software, and videos out there, but are they all really that good? No, not really. We have searched for the best products to recommend […]
Opening Doors for the Deaf Deaf people didn’t have many careers choices a few decades ago. They would usually find themselves working in trade jobs, non-profit work, or as teachers at schools for the deaf. But now, only a short time later, many doors have opened not only because of the Americans with Disabilities Act […]
Deaf Videophone Directory Deaf VP was a Deaf Videophone directory created by Sorenson. Videophones are telephones with a video screen. They enable deaf people to call each other (or a relay service) and use American Sign Language, their first language, to communicate. James38, CC:BY-SA Videophones themselves, however, haven’t become very popular. The reason for this […]
ASL 1 – Unit 11 In this unit of the online sign language class, you will learn how to identify people. Conversation Read this outline, and then watch the conversation in action on the video clip. Try to recognize what is being said. Watch the video again until you can follow the conversation without the […]
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