Where Do We Start with ASL as a Family? A Simple Guide for Beginning Your Sign Language Journey

Kathleen Marcath
4 days ago
5 min read

by ASL Picture Books

Starting ASL as a family doesn’t require having all the answers—just a willingness to begin and a community to support you along the way.

A mother sits on the floor with her two young sons, reading a picture book and signing together. Across the images, she models ASL signs while her boys mirror her handshapes and expressions, sharing smiles, focus, and connection. The sequence captures everyday family moments where language grows through sign, story, and loving interaction. — Meet Hannah and her sons, Jessen and Shepherd, sharing language through sign, story, and everyday connection. Hannah Jessen Conway is the author of *Love Sounds Like*, written for her son, born Deaf in a hearing world—a reminder that language begins with love.

Where Do I Start with ASL as a Family?

Knowing You’re Not Alone

One of the most common questions families ask is simple—and deeply honest:

“Where do I even start with ASL as a family?”

Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, educator, or caregiver, the desire to support language is often paired with uncertainty. There are so many options, opinions, and resources that it can feel overwhelming before you even begin.

Here’s the reassuring truth: there is no single “right” way to start learning ASL—only a next step.

A Story Written for a Child—and for Every Family Beginning Their Journey

Love Sounds Like was written by Hannah Jessen Conway for her son, born Deaf in a hearing world.

It began as a simple but powerful message: no matter what, you are loved.

Illustrated cover of Love Sounds Like by Hannah Jessen Conway, depicting a tender moment between a mother and her child, who wears a cochlear implant. They face each other with hands connected, symbolizing love, communication, and connection in a hearing and Deaf family.

Through gentle language and heartfelt intention, Hannah’s story reminds families that language doesn’t start with perfection—it starts with presence, connection, and love.

Hannah’s journey reflects what many families discover: sometimes the first step into ASL is simply assuring a child that they are seen, valued, and deeply loved.

Read our conversation with Hannah about writing Love Sounds Like.

Start With Trusted, Accurate ASL Resources

Accuracy matters when learning a language—especially one that builds connection, understanding, and trust. That’s why choosing trusted, community-centered resources is such an important first step.

Organizations, community services, Deaf-led creators, and ASL-inclusive picture books all play an important role in supporting families as they begin. Learning from those who live the language helps ensure signs are modeled clearly, respectfully, and meaningfully.

Deaf Voices Matter: Learning from Deb Myers

One example of this is Deb Myers, a Deaf author and teacher who is passionate about conceptually accurate ASL—a cornerstone of strong language development.

Portrait of Deaf author and ASL educator Deb Myers smiling, shown alongside the covers of her children’s books WASH and LEFT from the Winnie’s ASL Adventures series, which support conceptually accurate American Sign Language learning for young children.

Through her book series, Winnie's ASL Adventures, Deb reaches early learners with stories designed to support clear signing, comprehension, and confidence. Her work reflects the importance of learning ASL from Deaf voices and reminds families that accuracy and accessibility go hand in hand.

Including Deaf-led books and educators in your learning journey helps children experience ASL as a living language—rooted in culture, community, and real communication.

Signing Savvy: A Trusted ASL Source

One of our most trusted, longtime resources is Signing Savvy.

Signing Savvy offers a searchable video dictionary and more that allows families and educators to:

Learn accurate ASL signs
See correct handshapes, movement, and facial expressions
Build a learning list and create fun quizzes for practice
Build confidence that they are modeling signs clearly and consistently
Courses, Articles, Signs, and List
Teaching, Fingerspelling, Numbers, and Sentences

It’s a reliable place to check a sign, learn something new, or reinforce what you’re already practicing.

ASL Teaching Resources: Support for Home and Classroom

For those looking for more structured learning, ASL Teaching Resources offers thoughtful materials for both classrooms and home use.

Their resources support:

Educators incorporating ASL into daily routines
Families who want guided activities
Visual learners who benefit from clear, intentional instruction

This can be especially helpful when you’re ready to move beyond individual signs and into consistent practice.

Look Local: Community Learning Opportunities

Learning ASL is not just about vocabulary—it’s about connection.

Many families discover meaningful opportunities through:

Local libraries (ASL storytimes, classes, and events)
School districts (early intervention services, family workshops, DHH programs)
Community centers and parent networks

Finding even one local connection can make the journey feel more supported and less isolating.

Online Learning Is Expanding—Choose Thoughtfully

Online options for learning ASL are truly limitless. Videos, courses, and communities are more accessible than ever—across Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, apps, and beyond. Compared to just a few years ago, families now have access to an incredible range of voices, tools, and learning spaces. With so much available, how you choose matters.

As you explore online ASL learning, look for resources that:

Center Deaf voices and Deaf-led instruction
Reflect lived experience, not just theory
Emphasize conceptually accurate ASL
Focus on language access, not perfection
Thrive on community—conversation, connection, and shared growth

The goal isn’t to learn everything at once. It’s about building understanding over time in a space where you feel supported.

Find your people.

Find your community.

And give yourself permission to grow there.

One Helpful Place to Begin

To make getting started easier, we’ve gathered trusted ASL learning tools, websites, and organizations on our ASL Picture Books Resources page.

It’s designed to help families:

Explore options at their own pace
Find credible, community-centered resources
Choose a path that fits their needs and values

Because learning ASL isn’t about doing everything—it’s about doing something.

One Small Step This Week

Here’s your simple invitation:

👉 Choose one ASL resource

👉 Learn one new sign

👉 Use it during one everyday moment

That’s how language begins.

Coming Next Week

Why Picture Books Are a Natural Bridge to Language. How stories, shared attention, and representation turn ASL learning into connection—for the whole family.

Keep the Journey Going

Beginning an American Sign Language journey is just that—a beginning. There’s no perfect starting point, only small, meaningful moments of connection that grow over time.

Whether you’re introducing a few signs during everyday routines or simply becoming more aware of how visual language supports communication, each step matters. These early choices help build understanding, confidence, and trust—creating a strong foundation for a lifetime of connection and a deeper, more meaningful relationship with your child and family.

In the weeks ahead, we’ll continue exploring simple, practical ways parents can nurture language—through hands, voices, and shared moments that bring you closer together. We’re glad you’re here as this journey unfolds. 💛

Before you go, here are a few ways to keep growing on your ASL journey:

📚 Read Next: Explore more inspiring posts on our blog to continue learning and celebrating Deaf culture. Visit the blog »

🎤 Author Visits: Bring the magic of ASL to your school or library! Book an author visit to inspire your students and community. Learn more »

🖐️ Freebie – ASL Starter Kit: Grab your free printable ASL Alphabet Chart and starter resources—perfect for the fridge, classroom wall, or playroom. Get the free ASL Starter Kit. »

💌 Join Our Community: Sign up for our newsletter to receive tips, free resources, and uplifting stories delivered right to your inbox. Subscribe here »

🎨 Pre-Order Now: Reserve your copy of My Monster Truck Goes Everywhere with Me: Coloring & Activity Book—packed with fun ASL learning, puzzles, and creative play. Pre-order today »

Purple graphic titled “ASL Resources” from ASL Picture Books. The text explains that American Sign Language is a beautiful and powerful language shared by passionate people for many reasons, encourages learners at any stage, and emphasizes that the benefits of learning ASL are limitless and full of potential. The words “Article References” appear vertically along the right side, with icons for liking, commenting, sharing, and a right arrow at the bottom.

Signing Savvy A trusted ASL video dictionary for accurate signs and clear modeling.

ASL Teaching Resources Structured, visual tools for classrooms and home learning.

Hands & Voices Parent-driven support, community connection, and unbiased guidance.

Local Libraries & School Districts ASL storytimes, family programs, and early intervention services.

ASL Picture Books – Resources Page A curated list of trusted ASL learning tools and organizations.

👉 Start with one resource. Learn one sign. Use it today.

Meet the Author: Kathleen Marcath

Kathleen Marcath, smiling and seated in a light-colored chair, holds a copy of her debut picture book My Monster Truck Goes Everywhere with Me. She is wearing a royal blue top and glasses. The book, illustrated by Deaf artist Isaac Liang, features a cheerful child and a playful purple monster truck on the cover. — Kathleen Marcath, author of *My Monster Truck Goes Everywhere with Me,* shares her passion for ASL literacy through vibrant storytelling. Illustrated by Deaf artist Isaac Liang, this award-winning picture book celebrates the joy of communication and every child's limitless potential.

Kathleen Marcath is the award-winning author of My Monster Truck Goes Everywhere with Me and the founder of ASL Picture Books. She’s on a mission to share the joy of bilingual (ASL and English) education, creating stories that help children and families discover the limitless potential of ASL.

Stay in Touch: Follow Kathleen on Facebook and Instagram, or visit ASLPictureBooks.com for more resources and community updates.

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