How to Communicate With Deaf People When You Don't Know Sign Language

If it’s crucial that you communicate with a deaf person, heres what you should do.

But that obviously wont work with someone who cant hear you.

They need to see you.

Eye contact also ensures that you have their attention.

Never wave your hand in front of their face!

You also need to time your signaling just right.

If it looks like theyre actively doing something, dont interrupt (thats rude anyway).

And when you do begin to talk, always ask if you are interrupting somethingjust in case.

Let Them Take the Lead

Once youve got their attention, hand over the reins.

And theyll be on top of it.

If possible, be prepared for different methods of communication.

Have it out on your desk and take it with you when you go to talk with them.

The deaf person may be able to read lips.

When you start speaking, dont over enunciate, exaggerate lip movements, or mumble.

Both make it harder for someone to lip read!

And dont assume they understand everything you say just because theyre paying attention.

Deaf people get distracted too!

So be ready to repeat something youve already said.

That does not mean dumbing down what you said or yelling at them loudly, however.

Just repeat what you said the same way.

Give them time to process what youre saying, and occasionally stop to test whether theyre comprehending everything.

No matter how you end up communicating, though, be patient.

This process can be difficult for both of you, so give it some time and dont get angry.

Brown says you shouldnever give up out of frustration and blow it off.

Its rude, disrespectful, and it will definitely make them feel unimportant or left out.

In this video, youtuberAshley Clark Fryshows off 25 essential ASL signs anyone can learn.

Phrases like Hello, Yes, No, and Are you deaf?

are good to know.

That goes double if youre thinking about asking any of the questions in the abovevideo from WatchCut Video.

Keep it classy, people.