People have always used non-verbal signs to communicate, and deaf groups talk to each other using hands and facial expressions. Sign languages belong to deaf communities throughout the world: different systems of signs correspond to different nations. For example, in the United States the American Sign Language (ASL) is spoken, while in Italy the Italian Sign Language (LIS). Today, many parents learn sign language in order to teach it to their children.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Sign Language for Adults
Step 1. Learn the useful signs
Choose phrases that are used in everyday conversations with adults, such as "hello", "goodbye" and "how are you". When you speak in sign language, a single sign often includes several words.
Step 2. Study the alphabet
When you learn sign language, you won't always remember the exact sign corresponding to a certain thought or word, but if you know the alphabet, you can spell out terms and names.
Step 3. Add new words to the list of signs you know
- Take a sign language course. Learn to express yourself more effectively by enrolling in a dedicated course.
- Go to the library or bookstore and find illustrated sign language books.
Step 4. Use sign language every day
- Join an association for the promotion and dissemination of sign language. There are deaf associations where people come together to speak sign language. Join and meet other people who use it.
- Practice in the mirror. Sign language incorporates facial expressions and a coded system of hand signs. By looking in the mirror, you can learn to express yourself correctly.
Method 2 of 2: Sign Language for Children
Step 1. Choose simple words when dealing with a child
If you want to teach a child to learn sign language, choose words that have a certain relationship to their world, such as "milk" or "juice". The more subjective terms, such as "angry" and "hungry", are difficult for a child to understand.
Step 2. Maintain eye contact with the child when expressing yourself in sign language
This way you can have his full attention.
Step 3. Teach your child one word at a time
Choose an object that he particularly likes, such as his favorite toy, then use the corresponding sign.
Step 4. Add other words that describe the object when using sign language with a child
For example, if he has learned the sign for "horse", start showing him a combination of words, such as "rocking horse".
Step 5. Always use sign language when you are with a child
You can communicate with him while walking together, eating or reading him a book.
Advice
- Sign language is a full and vibrant language. If you use it daily, you can improve your communication skills.
- Animals fascinate most children. By learning the signs that indicate domestic and wild animals, you will be able to use them when having conversation with a child.
- If you learn sign language correctly, you may want to consider working as an interpreter for deaf people.
- Check the Internet to find a sign language course. For detailed and precise information on the courses in Sign Language, it is advisable to contact the provincial ENS office of your interest. To find out about the provincial ENS offices, click here to access the home page of the ENS website and search for the desired contacts in the ENS SEDI session.
