A field guide to signed languages
Everything Sign Language
Stories, history, and culture from Auslan, ASL, BSL, LSF and beyond.
Editor's pick
A Beginner's Guide to Learning Sign Language: ASL, BSL, LSF, and Auslan
Ready to start your journey into the world of signed languages? This guide provides a beginner's path to learning American Sign Language (ASL), British Sign Language (BSL), French Sign Language (LSF), and Australian Sign Language (Auslan), with resources and tips to get you started.
Jun 8, 2026
Latest
4 stories
The Spontaneous Speech of Hands: A Look into Village Sign Languages
Discover village sign languages, unique languages born in small communities with high rates of deafness. Explore the history of Martha's Vineyard Sign Language and the linguistic insights from Al-Sayyid Bedouin Sign Language.
Jun 8, 2026
The Rich History and Distinctive Grammar of Black American Sign Language
Black American Sign Language (BASL) is a vibrant and distinct sign language variety with a rich history and unique linguistic features. Learn about the story of BASL and what makes it a vital part of Black Deaf culture.
Jun 8, 2026
Is BSL the Same as ASL?
A common question is whether British Sign Language (BSL) and American Sign Language (ASL) are the same. The short answer is no—they are two distinct languages with unique histories, grammars, and vocabularies. This post explores why.
Jun 8, 2026
A Practical Guide to Learning a Signed Language
Ready to start your journey into the rich, expressive world of signed languages? This guide offers practical tips, from daily practice to cultural immersion, all centered on the most important rule: learn from the Deaf community.
Jun 8, 2026
Popular
4 stories
The Fascinating World of Indigenous Sign Languages: Preserving Ancient Traditions
When we think of sign languages, many of us picture widely used systems like American Sign Language (ASL) or British Sign Language (BSL) . However, sign languages have existed for centuries in Indigenous communities around the world, serving as vital tools for communication, stor
Jan 29, 2025
How Sign Language Poetry is Redefining Art and Expression
Poetry has always been a powerful medium for self-expression, but in the Deaf community, it takes on a whole new dimension. Sign language poetry is a vibrant and dynamic art form that uses the visual and spatial elements of sign language to create stunning works of art. Unlike sp
Jan 31, 2025
Top 10 Free Resources to Learn Sign Language Online in 2025
Learning sign language is a rewarding experience that opens doors to new connections, career opportunities, and a deeper understanding of Deaf culture. Whether you’re interested in American Sign Language (ASL), British Sign Language (BSL), or Australian Sign Language (Auslan), th
Jan 29, 2025
Sign Language in the Animal Kingdom: Can Animals Learn Sign Language?
Humans aren’t the only ones who use sign language—some animals have also been taught to communicate using gestures and signs. From gorillas to dolphins, these remarkable animals have demonstrated an ability to learn and use sign language to express their thoughts and needs. In th
Jan 31, 2025
Random reads
4 stories
Careers for Sign Language Learners: How Your Skills Can Make a Difference
Learning sign language (BSL, ASL, NZSL, Auslan, LASL, etc) opens doors to a wide range of rewarding careers, from direct roles like interpreting and education support to enhancing professions like healthcare, counseling, and even business. Whether you’re passionate about working
Jan 29, 2025
A Guide to Fire Safety for the Deaf Community
Traditional smoke alarms are not effective for everyone. Explore the life-saving technology of visual and vibrating fire alarms designed for the Deaf and hard of hearing community.
Jun 7, 2026
Deaf Rights in the Dock: Landmark Court Cases That Shaped a Community
Explore the landmark court cases that have shaped the rights and recognition of the Deaf community, from education to accessibility.
Jun 7, 2026
The Spontaneous Speech of Hands: A Look into Village Sign Languages
Discover village sign languages, unique languages born in small communities with high rates of deafness. Explore the history of Martha's Vineyard Sign Language and the linguistic insights from Al-Sayyid Bedouin Sign Language.
Jun 8, 2026