Humorous Gifts for Sign Language Interpreters

Sign-language interpreters use American Sign Language (ASL) to translate spoken language to deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. They spend countless hours on training courses, certification tests and hands-on practice in the deaf community. They work hard to make the hearing world more accessible to those who cannot hear. You can show your appreciation to a sign language interpreter in ways that will make her smile.

DVDs

Sign language interpreters often use instructional media to practice and expand their skills. Translating a deaf joke to a hearing person and vice versa is one of the toughest jobs they encounter. Give them a DVD that entertains and teaches how to successfully convey humor between a deaf and hearing person. "ASL Practice Series: ASL Funny Bones" is an instructional DVD that features jokes, dialogues, skits and humorous stories performed by deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. "CODA Brothers: Laugh, Learn, Sign: Volume 1" features two brothers who are children of deaf adults (CODAs) and also sign-language interpreters. They use humor to convey different ways to translate funny stories and jokes.Your interpreter may also get a laugh out of watching comedy shows performed in ASL. Two popular titles are "DEAFology 101," and "You Think Deaf People Have Problems?"

Clothing and Accessories

Funny slogans are sure to get a chuckle from your interpreter. Spell out the words "kiss the cook" in sign language on a BBQ apron. Get a T-shirt with "ASL" arranged inside a Superman logo from Harris Communications. "ASL" may mean "age, sex, location" to a hearing person but it is interpreted as "American Sign Language" in the deaf community. Customize a mug or key chain with slogans like "Terp This" or "Old interpreters don't die, they just sign off." Order a license plate frame or bumper sticker with the phrase "I see deaf people." You can find several websites that will let you create your own custom designs on a wide range of products.

Books

If your interpreter likes to read, there are a few humorous books and comics available through websites specializing in products for those involved in the deaf and hard-of-hearing society. "You Might Be a Sign Language Interpreter if ..." is a popular book written by deaf cartoonist Bruce Hansen that many interpreters will find hilarious. "Deaf Culture: OUR WAY" contains entertaining glimpses of life in the deaf community. "DEAFinitions for Signlets" and "More DEAFinitions" by deaf author Kenneth P. Glickman casts a humorous light on signs and their meanings. These books can be found on websites such as TerpTopics.com and at Harris Communications.

References

• SignEnhancers: ASL Funny Bones
• Sign Language Interpreter Gifts
• Sign Language Interpreter Books

Resources

• TerpTopics: Interpreter Topics Rendered Faithfully
• Deaf Culture
• Harris Communications