Do you want to learn British Sign Language (BSL), or expand your knowledge of Sign Language? It can be difficult to find the right resources online, so why not start by exploring the best YouTube channels? From NHS-accredited signing to American Sign Language (ASL) resources, this list shines a light on the best YouTube channels to help you take your signing skills to the next level. Keep reading to discover the best YouTube channels for learning BSL.
British sign language: Top Youtube Channels
Signs and Sounds
Signs and Sounds is a YouTube channel showcasing British Sign Language (BSL). Led and created by Rachel Xerri-Brook, this channel from Kings Heath, Birmingham, specializes in basic sign language and baby sign language, with Rachel also singing and signing songs. They have built a vibrant community and are growing in popularity, with Signs and Sounds now being a well-known name in the BSL world.
Commanding Hands
Commanding Hands is a useful YouTube channel which offers free British Sign Language (BSL) tutorials and resources. Through finger spelling and sign language demonstrations, viewers can learn basic BSL, as well as more advanced techniques, and gain a deeper understanding of the language. The channel is perfect for beginners who want to start learning BSL, as well as people who already have some experience with the language.
Learn Sign Language
The Learn Sign Language YouTube channel provides an extensive range of video lessons and tutorials to help viewers learn both American Sign Language and British Sign Language. From basic sign language courses, to complex sign language lessons, the channel has a range of content online to help viewers to learn to sign and become proficient in deaf sign language.
Leanne Signed Stories
Leanne Signed Stories is a YouTube channel that uses British Sign Language (BSL) to bring storytime to deaf and hearing children alike. Sign Supported English (SSE) is used to support stories, which are all read by a qualified Teacher of the Deaf. Videos feature traditional stories, songs andsign along, making it an entertaining and educational way for children to engage with stories and BSL.
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Lingvano
Lingvano's YouTube channel provides educational videos about British Sign Language (BSL), American Sign Language (ASL), and other sign languages. They allow hard of hearing and deaf people to learn sign language and provide resources for those with difficulty hearing. They also promote accessbility and offer support for those struggling with a loss of hearing. Through their videos, users can learn sign language and gain a greater understanding of sign language.
Tips for Getting Started with BSL
British Sign Language (BSL) is a language used by over 150,000 people in the UK. It has its own grammar and syntax, and a distinct set of signs that can be combined to form sentences. Learning BSL can provide a greater understanding of the deaf community and their culture, as well as facilitate better communication with a greater portion of the UK's population. If you’re interested in getting started with BSL, there are a few tips for developing your proficiency.
- First, the best way to learn any language is through immersion. One way to do this is to attend classes in BSL, where courses and tutors can provide an avenue to truly understand the language. Alternatively, if this isn’t an option, there are ample resources available online with videos tutorials and guides to learn the basics. Also, it’s important to practice the language with native speakers. Becoming familiar with conversational BSL should help to alleviate the sense of awkwardness and speed up the learning process.
- Secondly, memorizing the signs is only half the battle. When forming sentences and conversations in BSL, it’s necessary to understand the grammar and syntax. Just like in any other language, BSL is different from English and has its own unique nuances. One of the best ways to become more familiar with its grammar is to practice with useful phrases regularly. Not only will this give you an understanding of how to put sentences together, but you can also use them when communicating with others.
- Finally, it’s always beneficial to use mnemonics and visuals to remember signs and meanings. From cartoons to flashcards, associating visual cues with signs can help you memorize them faster, and stay confident in your usage of BSL. With a bit of dedication, you can quickly get started with the language, and find that it can be a great addition to your conversations.
For more help getting started with BSL, keep an eye out for classes and materials in your area; with a bit of effort, you can be on your way to mastering the language and building relationships with the UK's deaf community.
Achieving Proficiency in BSL
British Sign Language (BSL) is a unique and beautiful form of communication that is used by the British Deaf Community to communicate with each other. For those interested in learning BSL, increasing proficiency can a be a challenge. However, doing so can be incredibly rewarding.
- The first step in achieving proficiency in BSL is to learn the necessary signs and grammar structure. There are various online courses and classes available for those wishing to learn BSL, as well as books and other resources that demonstrate each sign. Additionally, there are a number of apps that offer interactive activities and games to help users learn and practice. By investing time and effort into learning BSL, it is possible to become proficient in the language and communicate effectively with other BSL speakers.
- The second step to achieving proficiency in BSL is to practice, practice, practice. The best way to hone this skill is to get out there and talk to people in the Deaf Community, whether at an event or gathering. Make an effort to become a part of the Deaf Community by interacting with native BSL speakers and trying to engage in conversations in the language. Doing this will help to cement what has been learnt and increase fluency.
Finally, although achieving proficiency in BSL can be a long and challenging process, it can be incredibly rewarding. By improving fluency in this language, it is possible to engage with Deaf community in a meaningful way, and to be able to communicate with them in their own language. Taking the steps to do this is an important step on the road to greater understanding and acceptance.
