How can I learn ASL?
The best way to learn any language is to spend time with the people who use it. We encourage you to take in-person classes or look online for ASL clubs, Deaf Coffee events, and sporting or community events at Deaf Schools and/or Deaf churches in your area.
Studying books or videos by yourself can mislead you. You may learn basic vocabulary, but ASL has a complex grammatical structure and nuance that is hard to learn alone. (In English, think about how many ways you can use the word “run.”)
Where can I find an ASL class?
- Local Deaf Associations – Almost every country and state has a local Deaf association. Look for yours online and ask them what’s available in your area. They will have the best idea of what your city offers.
- Community Colleges, Libraries, & Churches – Many offer ASL courses at reasonable rates! Choose ones that have Deaf instructors and/or are involved in the local Deaf community.
- Deaf Schools – If there is a Deaf school near you, ask if they offer ASL classes. Many do!
- ASL Connect – Gallaudet University offers free basic vocabulary resources through this online program. Want to learn more? They also offer more in-depth classes that you can take online with a Deaf instructor.
- Hands Land – This series on Amazon Prime is an excellent resource for teaching young children basic sign language. They also have videos on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
- Instagram – Another great way to learn is by following Instagram accounts that feature Deaf ASL instructors. We recommend: @theaslapp, @aslconnect, @theaslshop, @signedwithheart, and @handsland. We encourage you to follow Deaf-run accounts because ASL is their native language and they will be the best language models.
Why doesn’t the GLDK app teach sign language?
Our vision for GLDK is to provide families and churches the means to provide their deaf and hard of hearing children a strong foundation of faith in Jesus Christ. Right now, that does not include teaching sign language, but we are always happy to point you in the right direction!