What is ASL?
ASL, American Sign Language is a robust complete language with it's own vocabulary, grammar, structure, terminology, phonetic and morphologic components, and history that is accessible visually and tactically. ASL is not universal, in fact British Sign Language and American Sign Language are not even similar enough to have a conversation. Joseph Wheeler from ASL That explains it so well.
Visual languages, like auditory languages, are not universal. However, many languages are connected (or have similar foundations) due to immigration and colonization. This flow chart is one fun way to see some of those connections.
American Sign Language, for example, has a lot of influence from Old French Sign Language, Plains Indian Sign Language, Martha's Vineyard Sign Language, and just the natural development of languages over time.
Why learn ASL?
There are so many reasons to learn ASL, whether for yourself or for your child. Jessica Flores shares her story well and her beliefs behind the importance of ASL in her life.
For more reasons why you might learn sign language go to YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and even google - search the hashtag #whyisign... Just type "#WHYISIGN" into the search bar! You'll find so many stories! Here is one families story... What's your story?
THere are so many options...
ONLINE CLASSES/LESSONS
ASL at home is a great resource for parents and families offered in both English and Spanish.
IN PERSON/LIVE CLASSES
Please note that these classes are in my local area. Please check with your state school for the deaf and hard of hearing (and/or local outreach center) for ideas local to you.
ASL Classes offered by the Indiana Association for the Deaf (ages 12 and up with an adult)
Vincennes University (in Indianapolis) offers a variety of ASL classes for adults. In the past they have offered auditing for parents wanting to learn ASL.
This is a list that I continue to add too, for some it may be overwhelming, so look with caution.
