Reasons to Learn Sign Language

Many people, including those who are not hearing impaired, use sign language to communicate. The use of sign language is becoming so widespread that even babies are using it to communicate before they can talk. No matter what your age, there are plenty of reasons to learn sign language right now.

Communication

Learning sign language, specifically American Sign Language, will enable you to communicate with many people in the deaf community, as well as others who sign.

Increased Learning Ability

Learning sign language has been shown to improve reading skills and cognition. In fact, children who learn sign language score higher on IQ tests than their non-signing peers.

Benefits of a Second Language

Studies suggest that learning sign language provides many of the same benefits as learning a second spoken language. These benefits include slowing the effects of aging on the brain and improved memory function.

Job Opportunities

There are a number of job opportunities for hearing people who are fluent in American Sign Language. They can work as translators and sign language teachers.

Use it With Children

Babies as young as 6 or 7 months can be taught to sign. If you know sign language, you can use it with your child to help her communicate long before she can talk.

References

• Science Daily
• National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders

Resources

• Learn American Sign Language

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