Learning American Sign Language (ASL) is not only a way to break down communication barriers, but is considered a respectful skill worth having.
Sign language is not universal and each country has its own unique version of the language.
Today, there are more than 300 different sign languages used around the world. In the United States and part of Canada, ASL is the most used.
In the United States alone, there are more than half a million people who use ASL as their primary method of communication, according to the Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.
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Learning a different language is a powerful skill, but mastering it takes time and commitment.
Fortunately, today there are many different tools at your disposal that can help you learn ASL from the comfort of your couch.
There are many different resources you can take advantage of to learn sign language. (iStock)
If you want to learn ASL, below are some tips to get you started.
- Start with the alphabet
- Use phone apps for quick lessons
- Take an ASL class
- Try to learn with the help of YouTube videos.
- Maintain consistency
1. Start with the alphabet
When learning ASL, you'll want to start with the basics and the alphabet is a crucial starting point.
While you can't always rely on the alphabet when communicating with someone via ASL, it can help you when you come across a word whose sign you don't know.
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In ASL, “finger spelling” refers to spelling out the word or words you are trying to communicate.
Start your ASL journey with the alphabet and perfect it before moving on to more complex teachings.
Every day, several times a day, quickly read the alphabet.
Pretty soon, this will start to come naturally to you and you'll be ready to learn more ASL.
When you start learning sign language, the alphabet is a good place to start. (iStock)
2. Use phone apps for quick lessons
There are several apps you can download to access lessons at your fingertips.
Some courses are free to download, but some content is locked behind a paywall.
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Others charge a fee but often offer a free trial, so you can make sure you like it before purchasing.
A quick search in the app store will give you many options, depending on what you're looking for.
Some of these apps have interactive lessons with instructors, while others serve more as a sign language dictionary.
Practice sign language alone and with others to help you master the skill. (iStock)
3. Take an ASL class
There are many ASL classes you can take.
Community colleges often offer ASL courses for in-person learning. If you want to take a class from home, there are also many online classes and courses you can choose from.
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Taking an ASL class is an effective way to learn the language, while holding yourself accountable and keeping your studies on track.
Classes also provide the opportunity to ask questions about ASL.
4. Try to learn with the help of YouTube videos.
YouTube could be a powerful tool when learning a new language.
There are many YouTube videos dedicated to teaching ASL.
Lessons are usually quick and will introduce you to the language without needing to commit to a class.
There are many free videos online that can help you learn sign language. (iStock)
YouTube offers beginner-friendly videos that cover the signals you need to know.
The videos can be watched over and over again until you have perfected the skills.
5. Stay consistent
Practice makes perfect.
To adapt to the skill, you need to spend time. Set a schedule and try to be consistent with your studies.
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Once you've mastered it, practice your sign language at home, without the help of an instructional video.
While it's great to use classes and videos as a way to learn, you'll need to put them into practice.
