No Time? No Problem! A Self-Study Guide to Sign Language for Busy People

No time? No problem! How to start learning sign language on your own

I'm interested in sign language, but I don't have time to attend classes...
I often hear this concern.

For those of you who want to study sign language on your own, I have compiled some effective methods.

Things to know before you start learning sign language

• Sign language is a language used by deaf people.

• It does not correspond perfectly to Japanese.

• Not everyone who uses sign language chooses it; some prefer writing or subtitles.

• The method of communication is something the individual chooses for themselves.

Please keep this in mind when you start learning sign language.

First things first

• Choose an introductory book at a bookstore.

• When choosing a book, be sure to check if it includes a fingerspelling chart and a sign language number chart!

• Fingerspelling is like hiragana in Japanese. It is important for supplementing words that cannot be expressed with signs.

What beginners should learn

• Learn words starting with greetings and short sentences.

  • "Good morning," "Hello," "Good evening"

  • "It's sunny today, isn't it?" "Nice to meet you, I look forward to working with you"

  • "My family has three people"

• Learn not just hand movements, but also facial expressions and body movements as a set.

Tips for choosing a book

• I recommend
  "Sign Language Drill: Start Speaking Today", which I introduce in another article.

• You can watch sign language videos via QR codes, making it perfect for beginners!

Practice is Key! Get Out into Communication Spaces

• Once you start learning sign language, don't miss out on opportunities to actually talk with deaf people!

• Be honest and say, "I've just started studying sign language."

• Many people will be happy to adjust and speak gently with you.

Attending Events is Also Recommended!

• **November 2025: The Deaflympics (Olympics for the deaf)** will be held in Tokyo!

• On **March 3rd, "Ear Day,"** "Ear Day Cultural Festivals" are held in various locations.

• It's a chance to experience live sign language! Please make sure to visit.

Having a Goal Makes It Easier to Keep Going!

• Taking the National Sign Language Proficiency Test is also a good goal.

  • Level 5 is for beginners.

  • You can study efficiently by using textbooks for the test.

• Goal Examples

  • Have a simple conversation with a deaf person

  • Pass the proficiency test

If you set your own small goals, you can keep going while having fun!

🌟 To you, who are starting to learn sign language.
Many encounters and many discoveries await you.
Don't rush, enjoy the process, and let's move forward one step at a time!