After creating a list of my favorite sign language books, I discovered, came a list of resources and also classes. I highly recommend all of these resources and can't wait to find out which ones become favorites of yours too!
ASL Resources
Disclaimer: The links below will take you to Boohshop.org or Amazon.com ASL Picture Books affiliate.
Resources
American Sign Language is a beautiful and powerful language shared by passionate people for many different reasons. Whatever your interest in learning ASL, Congratulations! The benefits and rewards are limitless, it's potential is untapped. So tap in and enjoy your journey learning to who knows where?
World Federation of the Deaf
The International Week of Deaf people has been celebrated during the last full week of September. During this time we come to recognize that deaf people have our own communities, our own cultures, our own languages, sign languages, which unite us all. This year’s theme for the International Week of Deaf People is “Celebrating Thriving Deaf Communities”. Deaf communities have been expanding and thriving throughout the years and giving us all strength, now is the time to celebrate their incredible endurance at the local, national and international level. This is an important week for the recognition of deaf people, it is vital for deaf communities and deaf organizations. This fall under the key principle, "Nothing about us, without us!"
ASL Teaching Resources
We are so happy to introduce you to Cynthia, Nationally Certified Interpreter and Owner of ASL Teaching Resources
A one-stop place for ASL teaching resources and learning sign language. We specialize in providing teachers with the necessary tools to be successful whether they know sign or not. We help busy teachers with ready-to-use sign language-based worksheets, flashcards, and videos to make it easier to teach and communicate with deaf hearing, and special needs students. Start sharing with your students using the no-cost Sign Club complete with lesson plans and videos.
Deaf Community Advocacy Network Deaf C.A.N. - A Tradition of Excellence
DEAF C.A.N. is a non-profit Organization established in 1981 to provide services to the thousands of Deaf and Hard of Hearing people living in our area. DEAF C.A.N.! offers direct client services to individuals and families, as well as community education and information for professional groups. DEAF C.A.N.! provides a full array of services to the Deaf & Hard of Hearing communities in southeastern Michigan. DEAF C.A.N.! is partially supported by generous donations from individuals, community organizations, corporations and foundations.
We are so happy to introduce DEAF C.A.N, a top-notch service provider and interpreting service located in Sylvan Lake, MI.
No Limits for Deaf Children
"No Limits teaches underserved deaf children and their families the skills to succeed in school and life through its after-school educational centers and distinguished theater arts program, promoting advocacy and awareness worldwide." Their mission, vision, and values align to support the Deaf and Hard of Hearing children and their families to succeed in life. Not just to get by but find the joy of living out their full expression and full potential within themselves. That is a beautiful thing. Partnerships, sponsors, and community pour in tremendous life-giving support.
Children are the most amazing people. I believe they all deserve the opportunity and tools to thrive– a big shout out to Dr. Michelle Christine, Founder, Executive Director of this beautiful organization.
National Association of the Deaf
The National Association of the Deaf (NAD) is the nation's civil rights organization of Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in the United States.
The NAD was established in 1880. NAD represents the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community on essential issues and represents them on a national level. The advocacy scope of the NAD is broad, covering a lifetime and impacting future generations in the areas of early intervention, education, employment, healthcare, technology, telecommunications, youth leadership, and more – improving the lives of millions of Deaf and hard of hearing Americans.
The NAD is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Visit NAD for an extensive list of Deaf organizations and State Associations.
Your Sign Language Resource
The core of Signing Savvy includes:
ASL Vocabulary Dictionary Learning Tools - Course Materials - Community
MEMBERSHIP HAS IT'S BENEFITS and Plenty of Options:
Membership benefits are vast and valuable. View Sign information, Videos of ASL Sentences and Phrases, Enhanced Video, Mobile Member App., Create and Share Word Lists, Practice and Study With Digital Flash Cards and Quizzes, Practice Fingerspelling and Numbers, Handouts, Discount on tutoring, Rate options monthly, annual, and a 3-year plan. You may also purchase a gift membership, bulk, an educational institution, a non-educational institution, or a public library membership.
Sign Language Online with HandSpeak
Search ASL Dictionary • ASL to English Reverse Dictionary • Browse Tutorials • Phrases and Sentences • First 100+ Signs • Kids' ASL Wordbook • ASL Alphabet
Sign language on this site is the authenticity of culturally Deaf people and codas who speak ASL and other signed languages as their first language. This site creator is an ASL instructor and native signer who expresses love and passion for our sign language and culture.
Massive Resources of Everything ASL
LifePrint, ASL University by Dr. Bill
Dr. Bill Vicars generously provides an unending wealth of material for FREE! You can self-study for free (or take it as an actual course for $483.) The ASLU Dictionary answers fingerspelling, ASL Lessons, a self-study schedule, videos, questions, and answers. Details on the production of a sign or phrase are impressive. See Dr. Bill on our Educational Supplement Pages! "There is much more to learn American Sign Language than just memorizing signs. ASL has its own grammar, culture, history, terminology, and other unique characteristics... Dive in and enjoy - Dr. Bill"
Why should you use ASL Nook?
ASL Nook was founded by two Deaf people who come from hearing families.
The co-founders established ASL Nook after giving birth to a Deaf and hearing daughter seeming there was a resource gap for teaching new parents with Deaf children ASL where it was engaging to both the parent and child. If you are looking for authentic, real-life ASL then look now further than here.
The Learning Center for the Deaf
The mission of The Learning Center for the Deaf is to ensure that all deaf and hard of hearing children and adults thrive by having the knowledge, opportunity and power to design the future of their choice.
We cultivated a diverse bilingual, bicultural community where the primary language of interaction is American Sign Language (ASL)
Language First
Every Deaf child has the right to learn a first language effortlessly.
Language First aims to educate and raise awareness about American Sign Language (ASL)/English bilingualism and the importance of a strong first language foundation for Deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) children. Browse resources, handouts, events, and intervention activities to make your work as evidence-based as it can be.
Language First offers free resources and outstanding member services and monthly courses.
Sign with Me
Vision is to be a catalyst that bridges the communication gap that exists between the Hearing and Deaf communities at large, raising the levels of sensitivity towards the deaf community; and sparking a whole new generation of individuals interested in making a difference in communities other than their own.
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Our Purpose
SWM provides an educational alternative to the traditional classroom setting. We teach the fundamentals of American Sign Language (ASL) utilizing a combination of sign systems on a performing arts platform. In addition to our unique language programs, we offer premiere interpreting, consulting, and casting services in partnership with local agencies.
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Stimulate interest in learning ASL
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Increase the number of interpreters in the field
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Advocate for equal communication access for individuals who are d/Deaf
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Promote bi-lingual, bi-cultural education
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Raise awareness and sensitivity towards the deaf community
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Create collaborative job opportunities for deaf and hearing educators, interpreters, and entertainers
Resume & Employement Guide for People with Disabilities
According to the Social Security Administration, there are over 8 million disabled workers in the United States. These workers often face challenges such as stereotyping, discrimination, and a lack of accomodations. Thankfully, there are a variety of legal protections and employment resources available that help people with disabilities overcome these challenges and advance in their careers. Here you'll find best practices for resume writing, laws that protect you from discrimination, and several other topics that you should know about as a disabled worker.
CA EHDI: LEAD-K Family Services
LEAD-K Family Services is the recipient of the 4 year federal grant starting in 2020 by Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA-20-047). We now function as the current Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) in California. Our centralized services focus on connecting families with their local school district , Early Start home visit teachers, parent mentors, Deaf coaches and other supports as outlined in an Individualized Family Support Plan. We also work with the Department of Education, Department of Developmental Services, and the Department of Social Services to ensure your family is receiving all needed services.
Intelligent
The internet is filled with garbage. Yet where do we go when we need answers? We're tired of all the garbage, and decided to do something about it. So, we're sifting through it all to find the buried treasure. We're talking to experts. We're analyzing mountains of data. We're doing whatever it takes to create content that helps you live better.
Hear Zero ASL Shop
It's the heart of founder D'YANN ELAINE CROSBY to serve the Deaf Community in endless ways. Welcome to their online store! They feature the Top 40 "deaf-friendly" products that engage learners, support deaf business and celebrate Deaf culture. Every purchase through one of our links earns SWM a small commission. Your support contributes to our SWM Scholarship Programs.
Classes
American Sign Language Made Simple by ASLMeredith
ASLMeredith is a certified instructor of ASL who teaches from the ground up. You can go from zero to conversational in just a few weeks. Learn the vocabulary and grammar needed to begin communicating—confidently!—using ASL.
Black Bear Healing Home's 5-class Course for Parents of Children Aged 0–5
Private sessions can be set up according to your schedule, either through Zoom, or in person in Lanark County, Ontario or west-end Ottawa. You may inquire about weekend and evening availability.
My Baby Fingers
A fantastic selection of classes for all levels, including fingerspelling, conversation, baby sign language, and more! They also offer a sliding scale for families in need, and special accommodations for persons with disabilities. Don’t hesitate to inquire about this!
Fingerspelling 101 with Ashley Clark
This is a fantastic course for beginners to get started with fingerspelling! Self-paced and affordable, this class gives students lifetime access, and a full refund if you are unhappy with the course within 30 days of purchase. A great deal all around!
BirthSmarter – Sign Language for Littles
This class is a fantastic introduction to baby sign language! Learn all about how to use ASL to boost communication in the first two years of life!
Sign Club
Discover interactive learning and fun for your elementary-aged students. We’ve done all the work for you. Practical step-by-step process in your FREE Sign Club Lesson Plan, you'll have a successful and rewarding experience that the children will remember for life.
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We are so happy to introduce you to Cynthia, Nationally Certified Interpreter and Owner of ASL Teaching Resources.
Start ASL has classes for everyone!
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When learning ASL, it is important to also learn about Deaf Culture Start ASL teaches that along with Deaf History. Start ASL is a trusted source to teach you accurately true ASL.
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With Start ASL’s complete course, you will learn true American Sign Language, so you can join any signed conversation with complete confidence. Unlike most American Sign Language classes, we don’t just go over a bunch of random, boring little signs – we get you communicating right away.
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We will carefully guide you through not only learning essential vocabulary but also digging deep into proper ASL grammar and the vibrant Deaf community. Our lessons build on each other in a way where you can see immediate progress and learn not only correctly but quickly.