Expand Your Communication Skills With Sign Language
Konnichiwa! Hola! Habari! Ni hao! Bonjour! So many ways to say, “Hello,” but can you say it in sign language? Over 72 million kids and adults with some level of hearing loss speak 300+ sign languages, making it an important way to communicate. American Sign Language (ASL), common in the U.S., parts of Canada, and elsewhere, is one version of this multifaceted communication form.
Woman says, “Hello,” using American Sign Language.
With the holiday season just around the corner, we’re sharing nine fun and festive signs to try out — perfect for celebrations or making new connections at gatherings. Each one comes with a quick YouTube video so you can see the sign in action. Give them a go, share with family and friends, and who knows? You might be inspired to learn even more in the new year!
- “Trick or treat.”
On Halloween, there’s nothing like the fun of getting into costume, laughing with friends, and meeting neighbors while racking up an enviable haul of sweet treats door-to-door.
- “How are you?”
Whether serving as a greeting or opening a deeper conversation, this friendly lead-in — and similar versions such as “How’s it going?” and “What’s up?” — has stood the test of time.ASL often streamlines speech, so the sign for this is “How you?”
- “Good morning.”
Start the day with a smile! This friendly sign is a sunny way to say hello — perfect for neighbors, new friends, or anyone who loves a bright beginning.
- “Thank you so much.”
A little gratitude can go a long way! Whether you’re brightening someone’s day or just spreading good vibes, this sign is a sweet and simple way to show your thanks.This version communicates a little extra thanks versus the typical “thank you” statement.
- “Let’s get a bite to eat.”
Right?! Few things beat laughing and catching up over some delicious eats, especially with loved ones who’ve traveled from near and far.
The final four expressions below are broken up into individual words. The structure’s a bit different than orally spoken English, but with a little effort, it’ll click in no time.
- “The holidays are here!”
It’s hard to say that without a sense of excitement, joy, and wonder. Queue the fun debates about the “official, true, undeniable, absolute” start of the holiday season.
- “Holiday”
- “Here”
- “Come meet my family.”
Ahhh, the satisfaction of putting a face to a name and connecting in person with all those loved ones you’d heard so much about.
- “Come”
- “Meet”
- “Family”
- “I love dogs (and cats), too.”
Same, same! How many friendships started with a chat about fur babies? While no exact tally exists, we’re guessing a trillion.
- “Dog”
- “Cat”
- “Love”
- “Same”/“too”
- “Happy New Year!”
The new year might not quite occur at the same moment around the world, but the sense of renewal, anticipation, hope, and inspiration can feel universal.
Learning any new language can feel overwhelming at first — and American Sign Language (ASL) is no exception. But don’t let that discourage you. By starting with a few simple and commonly used expressions, you can build your skills and gain confidence much faster than you might expect. Just like learning any skill, the key is consistent practice. Give yourself permission to take your time, repeat signs as needed, and embrace the fact that mistakes are part of the process. Each one is a valuable learning opportunity.
It can also be incredibly helpful to ask for support along the way. You might be surprised how many people in your life — a friend, coworker, or even a relative — already know ASL or have experience learning it. Reaching out for guidance or practicing with someone else can make the journey much more enjoyable and productive. You may even spark a new shared interest or deepen an existing connection.
Incorporating a few ASL signs into your holiday traditions is a simple yet meaningful way to include more people in the festivities, especially those who are deaf or hard of hearing. Whether you’re signing “thank you,” “happy holidays,” or “I love you,” these small gestures can foster deeper bonds, spread joy, and enrich your celebrations. It can also be a fun family activity that encourages everyone — kids and adults alike — to engage with language in a new and inclusive way.
And while you’re finding new ways to connect through language, don’t forget the importance of maintaining your hearing health. The sounds of the season — from music and laughter to the clink of glasses and cheerful conversation — help make the holidays special. If you’re having difficulty hearing or if it’s been a while since your last checkup, now is the perfect time to act. Keeping your hearing in top shape helps ensure you don’t miss a moment.
Our caring team is here to support you. Schedule a hearing evaluation today, and let us help you enjoy the most connected and cheerful holiday season yet.
Did You Know?
Check out these quick sign-language facts to share this season.
- Global Recognition
Sept. 23, 2018, marked the inaugural International Day of Sign Languages, designated by the United Nations General Assembly to recognize the critical importance of sign communication. Raising awareness about this observance may help spur even more public interest in signing.
- Language Variety
Though some forms of sign language have been influenced by or have contributed to others, there is no universal version. American, Canadian, Kenyan, French, and hundreds more sign languages add to the breadth of communication and expression around the world.
- Expansive Expression
Sign language involves more than shapes and gestures using fingers and hands. It also includes facial movements, body posture, and other means of expression. Like orally spoken language, signing is varied and diverse.
- Regional Accents
Much like folks in one region of the country may pronounce a word differently from others elsewhere, signing even within the same language can vary. Thus, people may be perceived to sign with an “accent.” - Linguistic Complexity
Sign languages are as linguistically complex as orally spoken languages. They have their own syntax, morphology, semantics, and phonology that won’t necessarily mirror the structure of non-sign languages. This allows signing to accommodate a vast range of ideas and concepts. - Social Sharing
Some deaf content creators who sign are sharing their everyday experiences online. Whether funny, frustrating, or heartwarming, the clips on TikTok and other platforms offer a look at the unique and universal challenges that can occur with communication at home, work, or play. - Travel Access
Access to sign language interpreting services can be pretty iffy when traveling, highlighting the importance of addressing this need around the world. Tourist attractions, transit, lodging, and other entities might offer some assistance, making it important to check ahead. - Diverse Dialects
As with other languages, signing reflects the cultures, communities, and norms of those who use it and includes diverse dialects. There’s the New Orleans dialect of ASL, for example, influenced by French Sign Language; North American Indian Sign Language; and more.