What not to do when joining an ASL conversation 🙃

Imagine you are on your phone, minding your own business. You look up and see two people signing. You have taken a class with Visually Speaking so your signing senses kick in. You stare at the people signing for a moment, wondering what to do next… 👀

DON’T:

• Finger spell your ABCs
• Share that you are learning ASL before introducing yourself (it’s obvious to a native signer and unnecessary to minimize yourself) 
• Stare without announcing that you know ASL

DO:

• Remain calm 😌
• Make yourself seen and let other signers know there is another signer in the room. Sign: “I know some sign.”
• Introduce yourself 👋
• Allow the Deaf to lead a conversation. It’s their choice if they want welcome you into the conversation. 

The best way to learn ASL is to learn in the community with others. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Register for an ASL class today!