9 Easy ASL Signs to Learn This Holiday Season

Expand Your Communication Skills With Sign Language

Hola! Habari! Ni hao! Bonjour! Konnichiwa! 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.

With the holiday season soon in full swing, we’re sharing nine timely signs to learn, whether they’re expressions of celebration or warm words aimed to break the ice at fun gatherings. Each expression is paired with a YouTube video showing it in ASL form. Take a look, try out the signs yourself, and share with family and friends. They may inspire you to learn even more signs in the new year!

1. “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.

2. “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?”

3. “Good morning.”

Another common greeting that’s so simple yet can build a bridge among friends and strangers alike — and is always in season.

4. “Thank you so much.”

From strengthening bonds to deepening a personal sense of fulfillment, expressing gratitude can go a long way toward changing a mood and state of mind for the better.

This version communicates a little extra thanks versus the typical “thank you” statement.

5. “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.

6. “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”

7. “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”

8. “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”

9. “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 language can seem daunting at first, but these easy expressions can help you gain confidence fast. Allow yourself time to practice a bit and make mistakes. Asking for help can make the difference as well. You may even discover that a family member, friend, or colleague is fluent in ASL and happy to assist.

Adding a few ASL signs to your festivities can bring an extra layer of connection and cheer, opening the door to even more language learning. Keeping your hearing at its best can also play a big role in enjoying the best holiday season yet, so don’t wait. Contact our caring team to schedule a hearing evaluation appointment with our board certified doctors of audiology today!