Is It Rude To Gesture To A Deaf Person?

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Now, so many people forget that knowing sign language isn't the most important thing when talking to a deaf person. Understanding that you can gesture and put an effort into talking to a deaf person goes miles. There's so much to be said with just your hands and your imagination.
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Disclaimer: This video was made for educational purposes only. This video does not intend to influence or change the opinion of any viewer. This video is the public filming of personal experiences and cannot be modified. This footage is the property of Sign Duo LLC and cannot be used, altered, modified, copied in any way without expressed written consent from Sign Duo LLC or any of it's members

[@lenascharnreitner2739]

Once signed „You‘re welcome“ back at a customer who thanked me- he looked so happy and started to sign, had to stop him and signed „My sign language is aweful!“ he said „My hearing is aweful“ We both laughed and it kinda made my day

[@alexisranae779]

this is too sweet omg

[@birdo1278]

awful*

[@lenascharnreitner2739]

@@birdo1278 Oh thanks! English is my second language and some words and their spelling just don’t want to get inside my head!^^

[@birdo1278]

Lena Scharnreitner No worries!

[@sarathornburgh8880]

Aww, so sweet. Love it

[@LWOproductions]

“I was so encapsulated with you” “Wow, cute dog” I felt that. Hahaha. My husband does the same thing to me. 😂

[@Gehslol]

Same here :3 that was funny

[@HopeUnquenchable]

But his very first reaction to her saying that, was very sweet 🥰

[@morley364]

"I was so wrapped up in you, in every moment-" "Holy shit did you see that dog" I was dying laughing

[@Jay-kv6wi]

I watched that part and read your comment at the same time...like...how😆

[@penelopepurr]

when your guy does this, you know what you're saying is boring him. Shut up.

[@main135k]

When I was in high school in ASL class, when we didn’t understand a sign the teacher would sign, the teacher would just say the sign and move on. In college, we have Deaf instructors and instead of writing or finger spelling the word, they would gesture and act out the word (examples like going up and down stairs, scuba diving) and honestly that helped me retain a lot more information than just being told the word and then moving on. Now I do better about learning signs faster, but it makes me thankful for my Deaf instructors who were extremely patient while we were learning.

[@edwardmartin5626]

I'm almost 50!!! But I learn by being shown a few times.

[@lisasnortum-phelps5458]

This is a better way to learn for anyone, whatever subject you are learning. Acting things out and getting information through different senses stimulates our brains more. I wish all teachers would use more active and multisensory ways of teaching!

[@harmony8623]

I mean the Deaf community in my area strongly recommends only learning from Deaf teachers. It’s how they preserve Deaf culture and that way they know that what students are learning is correct. My deaf teacher told us so many stories of SL students he’s met that learnt wrong signs and etiquette from hearing teachers, it was shocking. It also provides job opportunities for Deaf people too, and they are much more involved in Deaf culture (which is just as important to learn as the sing language itself) than hearing people, besides CoDA’s

[@goodmorning2386]

@@lisasnortum-phelps5458 agreed, it’s so much more effective

[@hosinw]

She's being all cute "I was so encapsulated with you at the time" Ryan: Wow cute dog 🤭🤦🏾‍♂️🤣

[@rebeccasmakeuppp4392]

I always thought sign language should be taught at schools, like this if you think so

[@evalynn1863]

Aside from being able to communicate with people who are deaf or hard of hearing, imagine how useful it'd be in emergency situations where you have to stay silent or voices can't be heard. And I think everyone should learn about the culture of the deaf community because it's incredible.

[@nooriman5944]

Evalynn Like in the movie “The Silence”

[@evalynn1863]

@@nooriman5944 I was thinking more along the lines of an active shooter in a school/bank/college/etc. Or any hostage situation where a captive has access to a window and can communicate with people outside about happenings inside.

[@nooriman5944]

Evalynn Yeah, it could be very helpful. I really want to learn ASL but sadly my school doesn’t offer it.

[@wa7saka]

Noor ul Iman the movie “A silent Voice” is a very good movie about sign language +forgiveness + learning though it is Japanese sign language and not ASL

[@imahanneypie6952]

When he signed "cute dog" when you were trying to convey feelings, I felt that on a spiritual level.

[@An7ero]

That's just men for you. We're shit taking any compliments or talking about feelings in general lol

[@shapegirl1]

An7ero same with me, as a girl. 😂😂😂

[@gamingwithkev8208]

Bitch wtf?

[@black-nails]

@buntcubbles men aren't really less emotional (for example anger is often supressed in women and not so supressed in men) and being good with feelings doesn't mean that you too need to be emotional, you just need emotional intelligence (empathy, self awareness, social skills, self regulation, motivation) //p.s. women might cry more easily, but that doesn't mean that men wouldn't be distressed in the same situation, but they are more likely to not talk about it.

[@moemeehan9944]

I love this even more because its not like he can look at the dog and still half listen to what she is saying

[@aloser2821]

I think it depends on the gesture, like trying to get their attention, that’s not bad. If you THINK u know the sign and u try to do it, that’s not rude either. It’s rude to just gesture to be “funny”

[@goodmorning2386]

agreed

[@matiasdepaoli3000]

I have an accent when I speak English, so it is pretty normal for me having people asking me to repeat myself. Once I asked someone about a camping site on a national park, the guy happened to be deaf, he said: “I can read lips and can speak, but I am deaf”. I tried gesturing and enunciating every word. That did not go as planned, so I signed some basic asl for him “to wait” I was going to use some “pen and paper” (I know a little asl). He was happy I could sign that and happy to read my questions. Same as you said, each person is different, not everyone has the same preferences. Thank you for that!

[@mirjanbouma]

Yeah, don't overenunciate, that's counterproductive. 👍🏻

[@viniciuscarmo5956]

sometimes i forget to turn on CC, and i zone out while he signs and i understand nothing

[@LoveRemains]

😂

[@thorr18BEM]

I find myself reading his lips to understand some of the words even when they are excluded from the subtitles.

[@roadworkahead6258]

Turn on captions lol

[@tonicox4005]

Well I’ll do you one better. This is only the second video I’ve watched of theirs. And the first one she did more of the video and I could understand some of what he signed. But man he was going so fast in this one! And I was thinking if I have to gesture, how in the world am I supposed to know what he’s saying? So, uh, thanks for helping me discover how. 🤦🏼‍♀️🤦🏼‍♀️😂

[@albatrostheman9701]

Me to bruh

[@aleeshaa1788]

When he said he mocks them back I burst out laughing 😂😂

[@reemCGR]

same xD

[@TJ-dg5sn]

Saaaaaame!!!

[@gracepereira7171]

Same here

[@JeniLove808]

Me toooo ^_^

[@Karoger1987]

Yup 😂

[@hyyhwingz]

If evey person was taught a universal sign language at school, you could speak to anyone in the world

[@felisd]

There's no such thing. Heck, we can't even get people to agree on a universal speaking language... Esperanto and Ubuntu were probably the closest we ever got.

[@opymcgillicuttysasmrmpitof3497]

there are so many though, check out Chinese Sign Language, their signs are lit.

[@ryanstrong212]

Except sign language is not universal. ASL is for America. Perhaps, some signs may be common however, we cannot assume they are.

[@akuaik.100]

It would be really difficult cause each sign language is rooted on the spoken language of the country so it would be the same as asking that we all spoke the same language across the globe

[@iguessthatsme]

Unless, ya know, you dont hands.

[@lizzylambardo8103]

When I was in middle school, I had a friend that had deaf parents. They could read lips, and I honestly think that was my only saving grace because as a middle schooler I was horrible at gesturing. My friend and her siblings were all hearing, so I guess it was one of those things where they had to learn how to communicate with their kids somehow. My friend and her siblings knew some asl, but they didnt always use it. I remember her parents getting frustrated with her and making annoyed faces and tapping her shoulder angrily as if to say "wtf are you doing?! Sign please!" They taught me a little bit of asl, but I dont remember a lot. I know the alphabet still and a couple basic phrases. The biggest thing that I learned from having a best friend with deaf parents was that I got really good at looking at people when they talk and really enraging with someone during a conversation. I also had to learn to read lips. In order for me to understand my friend's parents, I had to get pretty good at reading lips since they didnt always make noise when they signed. They would always mouth words, but not always actually speak them. Every now and then when I'm in a situation where I can't talk, I still find myself signing "thank you" rather than saying it (like if I'meating and my mouth is full and you dont want to be rude by speaking with a full mouth, but you still need to thank someone). And I also sign "i love you" a lot to my bf and my family (especially if we're in a situation where it would be hard to hear each other talking, like if we're on opposite sides of a door). I think everyone should have to learn basic asl. They teach basic spanish in schools, so I don't understand why they wouldn't teach some basic asl. It's really good to know.

[@antoniareed7052]

I've had 2 experiences with gesture prior to my first ASL class. The 1st one was someone was helping me at a Nordstrom's Rack; we were talking comfortably, I moved my hair back behind my ear, and the woman noticed my hearing aids. She started talking really loud, saying things very simplistically, and gesturing like a Benny Hill Comedy show; big gestures towards the clothes, towards my body, pointing her index finger in my face. It was incredibly rude in the moment, but I really tried to just maintain my cool. I ended up not buying a blouse I really liked because I just wanted to get away from her. The 2nd experience was when I had broken one of my hearing aids (a car ran over it, so I had to wait until a new mold could be made and new hearing aid components put together, about 2 weeks) and I had forgotten to put my other hearing aid in. I was out and trying to buy coffee and donuts. It wasn't until I was in the store that I realized I didn't have any hearing aids in and I was embarrassed. The owner knew me and asked me what was wrong (because I walked in and then almost walked right back out). I pointed at my ears and said, I don't know if you knew that I wear hearing aids but I don't have them in. She responded with, it's ok, I know what you like, just tell me when I point at the donuts (she tried to broadly gesture while talking). I read lips pretty well, so I just nodded. She pointed out what I usually buy and I nodded yes or shook my head no, at each donut. She wrapped it up, and even gave me a free coffee because I was embarrassed and she wanted me to come back. I appreciated her being that way so much! So that's my two experiences of gesturing with hearing people.

[@8LiterallyJustTheNumber8]

What a cool donut lady! Thanks for sharing your stories

[@lsjaowhwbkwhwksha5926]

thanks for the insights

[@psycmajor]

As a food cashier I’ve communicated with deaf people before and managers just tell us to rip a receipt and ask them to write out their order. And we call people out by name to get their order but obviously that doesn’t work with deaf people so instead of asking for a name, I will gesture to them “I will bring you your food.” It’s an easy and understandable gesture, and I try to remember to sign thanks. It’s rare that a deaf person will come in so I don’t get much practice doing this and I won’t lie it catches me off guard and I’m worried of seeming disrespectful.

[@XIIxMysticxIIX]

I talk (keeping it to a minimum) hoping they can read lips because im behind the counter with a lot of ingredients in front of me. They usually do a good job of pointing to what they want (UNLIKE OTHER PEOPLE) but if im not sure i say the ingredient name and gesture towards it with the utensil in hand. Another example is when i ask if its for here or to go: “here” +gesture towards the ground or “to-go” +gesture with thumb outside.

[@kylanoble8669]

Their McDonald’s drive through video really blew me away. When I worked at a Chinese restaurant, there was a dude who occasionally cane in he signed that he was deaf to me (it was my first time seeing the sign but I’m not an idiot so I figured it out immediately) and I did simple gestures (thank you, bye, 5 minutes, take a seat, etc). It’s not that hard, guys. I feel like it’s 80% intention, and 20% situation

[@GeeklingNo1]

If you're trying they're usually happy no matter what.

[@jaayyyx]

I work at a Starbucks n what I usually do is have the person who’s a regular wait in a designated spot so they don’t miss their drink. Some of us have learned to do basics like you’re welcome but we usually communicate through writing

[@rmart0510]

I remember working at a McDonald's and 1 deaf person came in and I didnt realize they were deaf so they asked me to get them pen and paper. They didn't mind and I was more than willing to help them. When they went to sit down and their order was ready i took it to them even though it was somewhat busy and my manager screams at me saying what I'm doing...um I'm doing my job and doing the best customer service I can deliver...they just told me to let them know next time 🤦‍♂️🤷‍♂️. The customer thanked me regardless for the effort and thoughtfulness for doing great service.

[@nadjamatzeder7738]

I have a special needs son, and when sign language was brought up, I was intimidated by it, thinking there's no way, I will understand it. Our speach therapist suggested one word at a time. That was great advice. It diminished the intimidation. Through that I learned the majority of hearing people are intimidated by sign language. Their pride doesn't let them accept it. We have very intelligent people in our family, but none of them have tried just to learn a couple of signs for my son. All and all I've experienced this with the majority of the hearing world, so with that said, when Ryan experienced those people mocking sign, they do it to try to make themselves to be the dominant individual, so that on looker's will not detect their inability to understand. It's sad that their feeling of intimidation, that their pride will not allow themselves to accept the fact that no one knows everything, and life is constant learning, so they miss out on the beauty of meeting new people and learning new things. We need to pray for them.......thank you for your videos, and keep them coming. You two are a beautiful couple!

[@camilaserrano8241]

I showed my deaf sister your videos to prove to her that many deaf and mute people are informing the world with such inspiring videos like yours. Keep posting more. You guys are a beautiful couple!

[@yumi-jx5nz]

out of topic but am i the only one who thinks ryan looks like matt damon? lol

[@MissBintBibi]

Precious Kidoh lmao exactly what I thought

[@user-rk4jy3lj1c]

Precious Kidoh yeeees hahaha. I was keep thinking why he looks so familiar.

[@dreamynights]

Yup, looks like him a lot!

[@katieamarshh]

Yesss I’ve been trying to figure this out since I subbed like a month ago, this is it!

[@shelly7396]

Definitely Matt Damon.

[@Glamorrous]

How does Ryan feel about someone who knows the abc’s in sign and tries to spell things out that way to communicate?

[@psycmajor]

Yeah I wanna know too because the only thing I fully know in sign language is the alphabet.

[@signer3130]

As a Deaf person- my personal preference- would be please use what you know. Use the alphabet, but be open to when I teach you the sign and use it next time.

[@cassiadsouza709]

@@signer3130 omg thanks for letting us know! I'm learning asl and its fun. I hope I learn it completely one day

[@camroks3]

Ggggiiirrrrrrlllll my TA [Teacher Assistant] for my ASL 1 class at my college told me that before she could sign pretty fluently that she would fingerspell [aka the ABC spelling] ALL THE TIME and actually learned sign language better that way alongside her actual ASL classes. Deaf people will usually help teach you the signs for the word that you are spelling. At least learn how to say "Hi my name is *insert the fingerspelling of your name*" and let them know that you only know how to fingerspell the ABC's.

[@arlenexjanelle]

i’m around a deaf community at church, and one of the guys said “not that it’s rude, but a lot of deaf don’t know how to read or spell, they SIGN”

[@slp5680]

"Switched at Birth" was wonderful for awareness. Watched it with my girls when they were younger. I'm glad ASL is offered as a course in their high school.

[@davedaring9823]

No it isnt.

[@Inno4138]

“Wow- cute dog!” Good to know you can do that in any language :0 I seriously could be having a conversation with the most important person in the world, but if I see a cute dog; I’m pointing it out and no ones gonna stop me XD

[@alexismuckerman7939]

I have a cousin who has been deaf since she was 5 (she's in her late 40's now) and a big thing I noticed with her is that a lot of people in my family will unfortunately brush her off when talking with her because they don't think to gesture or even won't try to understand when she gestures instead of signing. Her and her mom know ASL fluently, but only I and a few other family members know some (not much) basic stuff so there's a lot of fingerspelling. This video made me think of a time at a family gathering where I noticed she was sitting by herself so I went over to sit with her and asked her by gesturing if she had seen the show Switched at Birth. She immediately got so excited and got her mom's attention to come over and we sat and talked about the show for a while. Also in my experience, gesturing helps with learning new signs because I will gesture something and she will stop me and show me the sign for whatever I'm trying to say

[@sinstone9655]

This gives me so many feels. You are a goddess!

[@svh942]

Do it trying to figure out what to say to that is the best way home and finished with the kids loved it but it would be great if you could send me a copy of the receipt for the clarification and the earliest you can drive me to work tomorrow and I will be there at call back on the phone with my mom and sister are you doing today I had to work late today sorry for your mom to get the rest between you and me I have to cut you off the list for the next few days and I will be in today to see if we can make it to the meeting tonight but I will be there at call

[@gaia8708]

I'm Italian, I ALWAYS gesture when I'm speaking with someone 😂

[@IcingRose]

Lol, I'm hoh and was dated Italian man in the past, he would gesture with me often by talk to me or Even, when he talked to someone casual still gesturing, I assume Italian tend to being like this way? I love it.

[@markfalso6634]

Gala Passero, si! Me too. haha. I am Italian-American and I still use Italian gesture as well.

[@Jehphg]

Brazilian with one side of the family coming from Italy (a couple of generations removed) and same!!! We still gesticulate a lot

[@gaia8708]

@@IcingRose yess, we always do that because we have a lot of dialects and some people (especially the oldest ones) don't even speak Italian but only dialects and we can't understand each one of them... that's why we gesture a lot! :) (sorry for my English lol)

[@IcingRose]

@@gaia8708 No worries! xD

[@emmarose4999]

I love how he wants her opinion too

[@Dyin2Fly84]

I am just learning asl with my kids and found this video. As a hearing individual I would find it helpful if there was cc or a voice over to understand what he is signing. I would subscribe and follow.

[@elizabethsmurlick6585]

@@Dyin2Fly84 There is CC :) you just have to turn it on. Just hover over the "CC" icon on the bottom right corner to see your options.

[@Dyin2Fly84]

@@elizabethsmurlick6585 I turned it on. But its not telling me what he's saying. Its only writing for whats being said. Not what's being signed..

[@Dark.Paradise]

5:50 “I just mock them back” damn it feels good to be a gangsta 😂😎

[@paigea.1514]

"I think u don't know babe" lmao

[@SignDuoChannel]

Paige A. 😂

[@a9029k]

But how does he know if she’s mouthing or if she’s using her voice?

[@katja2254]

I'm only learning german sign language but any sign language has their own grammatical structure. So at least in gsl if you're speaking and signing at the same time, it's called lbg (basically signing while you're speaking) and you're using the grammar of the speaking language as it's nearly impossible to use two languages with different grammar so yoz have to adapt.

[@villainlexi7300]

Its so cute when they show love like that

[@penngheeney]

@@a9029k vibrations, maybe? Or different breathing patterns; mouthing vs voicing?

[@brookenguyen1873]

In my asl class there is a general rule: Sign. If u can’t sign, gesture. If they can’t understand u fingerspell. If that doesn’t work write. If all else fails go to the talk box and speak.

[@oopth]

This may sound like an ignorant question, but what's a "Talk Box"? Or do you mean just use the mouth and actually speak in clear conversation so the other person can lipread?

[@essendossev362]

Is a talkbox like a cell phone??

[@bethanytalbot2445]

I think they mean a place in the classroom where you can physically go to speak to communicate with others..?

[@bethanytalbot2445]

Verbally that is

[@mobileterrarian8860]

My friend uses these Text to Speech apps, it works well however it takes a lot of time to talk to each other. He uses these because we don't understand ASL. We are currently learning but due to Covid we have to go to online meetings. I'm done with the basics already...

[@winsowavy245]

Switched At Birth was definitely the show that got me more aware of being able to communicate with deaf people. Representation is so so important.

[@maggiegene5691]

You two lovely people (and Java) have really opened my eyes as to how unaccommodating society is towards the deaf/hearing impaired community, even through things as simple as a lack of basic awareness. I just want to say thank you so much for making all of your amazingly helpful content. Y’all have inspired me to start learning ASL, as well as to encourage my peers to learn it also. Keep up the great work and I just know that change will come. I wish you both the best!!

[@nicolewyse1473]

Lmao he sees a dog every video and gets excited no matter what🤣I love it

[@JennyRose1776]

Can't say that I blame him...I mean... Dogs are preTTY FREAKIN AWESOME!

[@arillias3]

I think the game you were thinking about was charades, maybe?

[@SignDuoChannel]

yep i think that's it!-ryan

[@gretaalejandra9584]

@@SignDuoChannel hello

[@staceytates5778]

You two are so adorable. I have a lot of deaf individuals come into my work and am trying to brush up on my basic signs.

[@carlygallagher1387]

When I lived in China, I had to learn to gesture as well. Many of the struggles you describe are very similar to just being in a foreign culture and not speaking the language. You can communicate so, so much nonverbally. I was always so shocked at how much I could communicate just through my limited Mandarin and gestures.

[@jenn9753]

I can't stand when I tell people my mom is deaf and they say "oh I know this in sign language" and put there middle finger up like its really sign but I 100% isn't.

[@HopeUnquenchable]

Wow, that’s beyond rude 😳

[@pattysherwood7091]

Too bad you can't slap them in the face and say it is sign language.

[@felixdawson8497]

Jennifer Marr what’s fuck you in ASL then? Interesting how gestures and sign language don’t really overlap much

[@MetaMarcy21]

Felix Dawson “Fuck you” is so good in sign- definitely look it up!

[@apancakewithabs632]

@@felixdawson8497 pretty old but I think it’s like dragging your hand on your through and then like flipping off your chin if that makes sense

[@danny_p6548]

It’s so nice to see Ryan speaking to us more than just a quick minute. Thanks for that clip at the end, the asada burrito sounds bomb! 🌯

[@SignDuoChannel]

Daniel Paiz it was soooo good!

[@rubymacleod2200]

I’ve noticed he makes popping sounds with his mouth a lot when he signs, it’s actually kinda nice like asmr

[@easterndavid]

Understanding Ryan's story is so helpful to me as a primarily self-taught hearing person in the ASL and other sign communities, I noticed his structure is so similar to mine, and how some may think Ryan is 'faking it'.

[@mars6038]

now we need merch with ‘Wow! Cute dog!’ on it 😂😂

[@Neko_Calico]

But in Sign language! (Pictures of hands on the shirt)

[@salivababy2318]

0CheshireGrin0 and @mars clever

[@candaceroset]

when i was working at a different tanning salon one of the employees got so annoyed that this lady was walking in to tan because she was deaf, i grew up being around my grandmas best friend who was deaf from a childhood accident and immediately took over and helped the lady gesturing to her and then writing down the different bed options since her normal room was busy and she was so nice and so thankful someone actually was treating her like a normal person rather than just ignoring her. people can be SO CRUEL i don't understand it. I've always wanted to learn sign language and your channel has seriously helped so much in learning small signs for here and there until i can focus in on learning it fully.

[@missbeaussie]

I had a similar experience working retail. There was a woman who wanted to do a return and she didn't speak English, she was with her child. Everyone was ready to palm her off. I called upstairs to see if anyone spoke mandarin which they didn't then I used Google translate to audio. The relief on her face was so strong.

[@ughhhmcrbinch5583]

Nothing normal about tanning beds 😬

[@8LiterallyJustTheNumber8]

@@missbeaussie that's so kind of you, and quick thinking!

[@DianeM.Schneider]

The look he gave you when you said, “I’m surprised how good you are at gesturing” was adorable. 🥰

[@faithnicole2161]

I love this channel. I've been teaching myself asl through some different KZbin channels. Then in June of this year I went to bed fine and woke up half deaf, all my tests came back negative so nobody really knows why it happened, so I've been trying to learn even more asl, or to take classes somewhere. But watching you guys, it helps me see how the hand movements are in some of the words I actually know and how it differs a bit from what I'm learning on KZbin through other deaf channels. Thank you so much for these videos guys, I believe I subscribed to the channel and look forward to seeing more of you two, which by the way, you guys are the CUTEST couple!

[@boogerrrrr]

Holy cow that must have been terrifying

[@henrie.c]

When Ryan got distracted and said 'Wow, cute dog' he reminded me of the scene from the movie ‘Up’ when the dog said 'Squirrel' LOL

[@jessicakastanek6065]

Up

[@unicornmadness6286]

Great movie man, haven't seen it in over a decade, can't believe it's been that long.

[@henrie.c]

@@unicornmadness6286 12 years and I’ve watched it so many times and still shed tears as if I’m watching it for the first time ♥️ 🥲

[@emilymartin8871]

I (hearing) was actually working my job as an event promoter at a home remodeling show and a family that was happened to be deaf showed up at my table. I was able to gesture and talk as I normally would with any other person, and the more the conversation progressed with them, they seemed appreciative that I wasn’t mocking them. They ended up teaching me a few basic signs, and now people in my department are learning some basic sign language through Skillshare! THANK YOU GUYS FOR PUTTING THIS VIDEO UP! I was very worried I may have offended them.

[@edwardmartin5626]

I worked in a Grocery store for many years. The Gentleman I spoke with was extremely patient with me. We would write down his order and his wife had passed. His daughter helped me help his family get the stuff they needed. I'm grateful for the abc's that I had learned as a child. But, mostly grateful that they had patience for me. Thank you so very much. You both are amazingly awesome and kind!!!!!!

[@BlackPlectrum]

I think the girl is super polite, has anyone noticed that she never says a word while the guy is signing? It's like in a spoken conversation, totally awesome

[@Jesuspg26]

I also think Switched at Birth really made a good job at showing off the Deaf Community. I’m teaching myself because of the show and you guys. I Like watching your videos. Keep it up. ❤️

[@monetflores3142]

the deaf community actually thinks otherwise. its alright and does show some insight but it's not the best representation and doesnt do a great job. at all.

[@chrislee1613]

never watched Switched at Birth..hmmm

[@jolieholiday1184]

thats what happened to me and i took a semester at uni and it was so eye opening i wish everyone had to take it because it opens ur eyes and oyu see from their point of view. because in the class we could not talk but we could write notes or sign if needed it was awesome to be apart of their world

[@geraldineclaire]

my favourite show

[@laylag.4219]

Omg me too I watched switched at birth and I was just fascinated with the language and wanted to learn more so I started learning on my own, then I just started to notice sign language being spoken everywhere and I’m like why didn’t I see this before. It’s amazing and I love it❤️

[@mistyeparkermba8750]

I went to a family funeral a couple of months ago and met a HoH person. She had a hearing aid and I noticed that she seemed to want to sign some words, almost like it was a habit. So, using a lot of the words that Sign Duo taught me, as well as a few others, I started signing with her and explained that I was still learning and was new at ASL. She was extremely grateful for my attempts and she was patient with me, and even helped me by correcting my signs. I think she was happy that I was just willing to give it a try. :-)

[@SignDuoChannel]

So awesome Misty! I'm so glad that you tried to sign! Yes, I don't mind that people make mistakes when signing, I just love that they try! -ryan

[@gjeniazelia388]

Absolutely, we are so appreciative when a hearing person tries their best to help us understand you. As we would do the same. Thank you for being so thoughtful!

[@lyndavonkanel8603]

HH=Hard of hearing

[@morganschmidtke9015]

I really appreciate your humble and sincere spirits! Thank you for being willing to be a bridge and help people (including myself!) understand! This video helps a lot because I have always wondered if my efforts to communicate (with limited sign knowledge) would be welcomed or not. This gives me confidence! I adore your videos!

[@lauren5946]

The video where you guys go through that McD drive thru really inspired me to learn at least basic ASL. It made me sad to learn you don't even like going in public a lot because of the ignorance of a lot of hearing people. It just made me really want to be prepared if I ever encounter someone deaf. Thanks for making these videos!

[@dorkmyride]

Man after my own heart: Significant Other: *talking about the relationship* Me: LOOK! CUTE DOG!

[@thesweetlalaby]

Lol my bf is over hearing you talk, and he kept saying “ charades” everytime you kept calling it something else lol

[@85walcott]

Me too haha

[@valeriedietz4698]

I've never been around anyone deaf or hard of hearing but in 8th grade I took it upon myself to learn some basic sign language so if I ever was I would be able to communicate easier and am now further educating myself and I love you guys and your channel because it really helps me familiarize myself with signs im still learning and you guys are so positive and entertaining :)

[@kevinastrophel]

These videos are great. I really appreciate getting insight and education for how I might better interact with someone who is deaf. On top of this, I am gaining perspective on how to overcome communication barriers, not just in every day life but especially within a relationship. Speaking different languages is an obvious barrier to overcome. Something less obvious is when a person has difficulty communicating with others dispute speaking a common language. Their is more to communication then just the language or even the body language. I am getting insight into those things from this video. Thank you for these insights and I appreciate what you are doing.

[@yanizgonzalez2756]

I need me a guy like Ryan. One that informs me about all the cute dogs ❤❤

[@wonderwend1]

Absolutely!

[@michmargarito1766]

Me: *Learning sign lenguage w/ this videos* Also me: *Speaks Spanish and know that the sign lenguage is different* OH SHOOT

[@mariferortega8346]

Igual yo jajaj

[@markfalso6634]

Ha. Try this for size. I am fluent in speaking English, hablar español poco, ASL, Sign English, and Lenguaje de señas centroamericano.

[@jennifoow]

Ha ha same to me, but I speak portuguese

[@starrrymars]

Saaame

[@aderyn7600]

Wouldnt ASL dentence structure and grammar be more similer to spanish, cause like ASL borrows alot from french sign language? Idk

[@tabithafletcher563]

I've enjoyed a few of your videos...and I'm so relieved to know that it's not rude to gesture. When I served snacks at church, there was a teen boy who spoke through sign language and he ordered snacks every week. We ended up making up signs for his favorite choices. Like a Sprite was me pretending to swallow the sign for "S". It was fast paced, so we just did the best we could. He was so patient with me!

[@swr1240]

This is great! Seeing you, Ryan, signing while reading the cc helps. I think it's almost like immersion. Like it's between rigid online learning of ASL vs immersion. Plus, your videos are entertaining, so that helps a lot! Your channel is awesome! You two are so great together!

[@lisablanton1869]

My hoh husband and I started learning asl. We were signing and his best friend on the fishing trip did the mocking gesturing to us. I realized he was feeling left out and asked him if he was. He admitted yes. So I let him in on what we were saying. I thought wow this could lead to a good understanding of his friend knowing how it feels for my husband to be left out of conversations all the time that way.

[@JennyRose1776]

What does "hoh" mean?

[@trevormcclurkin3984]

I would guess hard of hearing.

[@fthurman]

jesus, imagine having an ADULT friend that resorts to mocking you rather than using his big boy words to express that he felt excluded.

[@JennyRose1776]

@@trevormcclurkin3984 ohmygosh... Hahaha, yep you're probably right... Ya'know had "hoh" been HOH, I might've realized what it meant...😐 That was a 'Biden moment'.

[@lyndavonkanel8603]

HH=Hard of Hearing

[@lindsaynic]

Oh, man...I’m hearing but we have a very prominent deaf community in my area. I’ve learned a bit of sign language over the years (please, thank you, sorry, I love you, the alphabet) but am not fluent-so when a deaf customee came into the store I was working at in high school I wrote with her on a piece of paper. It seemed to work better for both of us than gesturing, as I didn’t want to offend or misinterpret. Now I have a son who is hearing, but non-verbal, and we’re using baby signs with him. I’m learning more and I am so stoked I found your channel to help! I’ve already picked up a few new signs from just two of your videos. Thank you thank you thank you for sharing and educating!

[@AK-jt7kh]

I absolutely love when people that have some kind of disability are really understanding when other people are rude because they don’t know how to act. It bridges the gap between the worlds, because it makes the average person feel less anxious about engaging. I think the way he handles the situation is great! I’d rather have someone point it out to me that I’m being a bit rude, in a funny way, then for them to get upset, offended, or hurt.

[@rhea.morgan]

I learnt how to sign the alphabet with both hands, I am learning one handed alphabet and hope to learnt more.

[@karenhill780]

I loved seeing that clip at the end! I'm so glad you added that!

[@mai_561]

she is so gorgeous. and a lovely couple overall

[@Jojo12336]

i'm super late to the party, but i'll comment anyway. My grandma always had a facination with sign language and a few words always stuck with me through the years. I was working at a supermarket for 3 years and recognized a regular customer as deaf and always said "thank you" and waved good bye as he checked out. I changed jobs and was working at a construction store years later and recognized the same man. I signed if he needed help and I assisted in organizing him a pallet of wood pellets for his wood stove. I always feel sheepish when i sign because I can never tell if I'm rude for noticing or helpful because I can sign and gesture back; now i know better. I'm glad this video is here. Your videos are awesome!

[@Jazmin-bq7nq]

They are very cute. I can see that he looks at her very lovingly it is really sweet. They look very good together based on their videos and communication. Just barely watching a video makes me want to take initiative to learn some basic sign language for when I will need it.

[@mada-ms5ne]

20 years down the line "Babe you still talk while signing" 😂

[@katecollins2471]

Thank you for including the part at the end with Ryan gesturing in real life. That was really helpful to see! I just finished ASL 1 and we had a silent dinner at a restaurant and we had to gesture and point for the waiter to understand

[@cynhanrahan4012]

I found Sign Duo tonight, and you two are doing a great job educating hearing people. You are way more patient than I am when confronted with denied access. Plus, I realized after turning on cc, I really can understand most of what both of you are signing. Been a long time since I've signed. Thank you for the practice! I adore that you have a sign name Sign Duo.

[@rae6878]

I was surprised to see just how excited some deaf people get when you know enough general signs to communicate with them! I knew just enough to brokenly ask a Walmart employee where to find the large animal water bottles (I have 5 guinea pigs) and he got so excited he basically ran there! Now every time I see him we smile and wave because I’ve helped other customers communicate better with him as well. Really nice guy!

[@caileenbeanin]

I love you two!!! Ryan's mouth noises are some ASMR, anyone else feel the same way? 😂

[@theparalyser]

Caileen Brennan HAHA YES

[@thelemonheads4853]

Yeh I like em. Thought I was the only one 🤭

[@mstie3252]

At my last job, I had a Deaf coworker. She communicated pretty well by gestures and notes to get her job done. I would have little chats with her every time we worked together. I took a sign language class in college (we learned SEE, not ASL). I remember some signs, and fingerspelling. When I started spelling out something I didn't know how to sign, she would teach me the sign. Thankfully, I did remember enough other signs that I wasn't JUST spelling. But she didn't seem to mind. I was the only person at work who knew any sign at all, so I hope she appreciated my attempts to communicate and get to know her.

[@lyndavonkanel8603]

I'm sure she appreciated your attempts. Good for you!

[@JulieKowing]

I'm learning little bits of sign. One of the coolest things that has ever happened to me was while I was working in a mead booth at a Renaissance Faire. A lovely deaf couple came up, I knew enough to sign how are you, she almost cried. I learned a new sign from them - honey! - and I'm starting to learn a few new signs at a time. It's really hard for some reasons with migraines, but I'm determined. It humbled me that simply knowing how to sign "welcome! How are you?" almost made that woman cry. I am so glad I can at least do the alphabet and I'm going to learn what I can. Thank you for reminding us all to be a little kinder and more aware.

[@twopeasonaspoon]

I love the way you look at each other's faces when you're signing and not at each other's hands. Such a beautiful connection.

[@AMoore-qx6vv]

I just wanted to let you know that after I watched this video, I taught myself the alphabet and common phrases and will continue to learn ASL. Thank you for inspiring me.

[@shevalipkind473]

Im a hearing person and I started learning asl by myself around January. I was always wanted to learn asl bc not a lot of hearing people know it and I want to communicate with deaf community. I started learning asl through books and Instagram videos. And, honestly i thought i was learning it wrong. Then I found this channel and I saw how much I actually learned. So I want to thank you guys for,well, just being yourself. I'm so happy to be a part of the sign family!

[@SignDuoChannel]

Sheva Lipkind 😁🤟 thank you. I know, thats such a great feeling! I’ve felt that way too. It means you’re doing good 💕

[@tjbugeye]

I've always been so impressed by how well deaf people can communicate. I'm 7th and 8th grade I had friend with a deaf older sister and she was so cool. Always trying to teach a little sign language to me when I would hang out. I never tried very hard to be honest but the older I got the more I thought ASL was fascinating. Now my daughter talks about wanting to learn and I'm truly excited. Trying to be very supportive. Thanks for making great videos.

[@zivagoldman2001]

I had to take a second language in high school and I chose sign language. I was pretty good, but once I graduated, I had nobody to talk to so I lost that skill. Watching you (Sign Duo), I now want to pick it back up. :) I have the captions on, but I find it difficult to watch your hands (Ryan) and read at the same time, so I watch you first, then back track to see if I got what you said. I'm glad I found your channel! Love you guys!!!

[@sydneyschapel5863]

The sound of Ryan’s watch moving as he signed was... oddly satisfying.

[@mysmirandam.6618]

Yep

[@lesliee.4886]

I actually grew up watching the show "Signing Time." That show was my first exposure to signing and the concept of someone being deaf. I'm not sure if it's still being aired for the younger generations, I hope it is.

[@Randomness823]

Just reading "Signing Time" has the theme song stuck in my head. I have a bunch of their DvDs (not sure how or why I acquired them, I've had them since I was little) and used to watch them all the time. Maybe I'll go rewatch them soon, thank you for the reminder. It's time I revist Alex and Leah

[@lesliee.4886]

@@Randomness823 lol it’s signing time with Alex and Leah....

[@opymcgillicuttysasmrmpitof3497]

Im 38 and learning sign, and I love signing time, lol. you can find on youtube.

[@milesr2276]

I used to fill a notebook with diagrams of the signs I learned in each episode

[@lindsayhartje6678]

You both are so kind and patient with people. I love that you understand that people mostly just don’t know when something is rude. Sometimes I struggle to give people the benefit of the doubt. This is definitely something I can learn for you.

[@artemisnighthuntress3709]

I tend to use my hands when talking ever since I was a little kid, that along with my families fascination with loud noises and music is what caused me to learn and want to practice true ASL. Thank you and all the deaf/hard of hearing KZbinrs who help us learn more about this community.

[@antonioyacovodonato611]

I have a friend who is an ASL interpreter and I asked him this, and he seemed torn, so I'd be curious to your view on this: Ryan, I know that correct grammar in ASL is different from English, does it take away from the meaning at times when Ellen signs using English grammar? Ellen: Do you, or does Ryan prefer you, to sign while speaking, in group settings, so as to be sure he didn't miss anything, or doesn't have to be as diligent at lip/situation reading?

[@lucycandevish6044]

I'm quite curious to this too, as I taught myself some signs but I don't understand the grammar. If I were to try and convey a message to a deaf person through sign might they not understand because I don't know the correct word order among other things.

[@jasminesanchez4118]

They did a video on this where they explained different versions of ASL like simcom and see and pidgin?

[@meitrawilliams4796]

Man it’s so hard to sign word for word like Ellen does. I would say that’s why it’s a bit slower. The grammar of asl or any language is so important. It’s not too hard too, just backwards lol takes out most conjunctions. But I do find it interesting to hear the take on people’s preferences.

[@setrisd9191]

I don't want to answer for Ryan, but from what I've noticed he's an incredibly English signer with some ASL tendencies, if that makes any sense. The majority of the time it looks like SEE word order and habits, so I don't think Ellen signing English would be too impactful

[@yledki19]

When I used to work at a retail store I had deaf couple and I had never had to help anyone who was deaf so I was nerves because I didn’t want to make them feel bad....so I gestured them the entire time while talking and they left with a huge smile on their face. So, it does feel more intimate rather than just writing stuff on a paper because it feels like you don’t even care to try! So thank you!

[@masterjedifunkolobstah4836]

True, but someone people, like myself are horrible at gestures. I'd rather write it out instead of gesturing something confusing.

[@Uninvisibl]

Super cute seeing those lovely moments between you two. This video made me laugh a few times too! You've cornered the deaf-hearing couple market, but I'm curious if you've ever considered talking about any possible issues around being an interracial couple. There are youtubers who build channels around that too, so you could totally do both!

[@romanrodriguez7414]

I think you guys are so admirable and I find it amazing that you guys are teaching each other and learning to as a couple. Just makes me want to learn even more ASL!

[@sabinavitola8130]

I AM SO HAPPY I FOUND THIS CHANNEL 💃🏽💃🏽💃🏽🙌🏽😫💕 when I was little my best friend’s little brother had a hard time hearing (from a learning disability though ) and so we all tried to learn sign language to try and make it easier for him and I think I got a little bit good at it! Unfortunately this was in Guatemala and because we speak Spanish over there signs are different ( as far as I know of course! And I was never fluent by any means over there anyway) so when I moved here I was so sad to realize that what little I know didn’t really work all that well. I am Sooooooooo excited to watch all of you guy’s videos and practice and hopefully learn as much ASL as I can!!!!!! I’m already on like video 12 and I turned on closed captions but try to go back and forth between reading and then testing to see if I can understand it if I rewind and watch again ( like you guys suggested a couple of videos ago lol). Can you imagine how amazing it would be if I’m even a tiny bit functional in ASL in let’s say a year? I mean WOW,! Anyway! Haha just wanted to say that’s this is an AMAAAZING LEARNING TOOL and to please keep it up!!!!👏🏽💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽💕 we need more channels/ people like this!😭❤️🙌🏽

[@SignDuoChannel]

I know you can do it Sabina! I'm glad our videos are a learning tool!

[@jayer6908]

can yall stop being so adorable together like y’all are sO cute

[@aishayo3308]

Hi guys! Thanks for your channel! Just accidentally came across this video and now its 3am in my town and I am still watching you videos non-stop, wow. That’s so important, I think and funny and comfort to enjoy. I’ve never was deeply aware of deaf-people’s world and now I feel much more educated in this. Thank you a lot. Please, more videos!!! So amazing. The exact content that needs to be spread and heard! You are awesome, guys! Good luck!

[@stephensonalec1]

I know this is an old post, but it is my favorite. It touches on the most important part of human engagement...trying to communicate with the other person. This implies coming out of yourself and putting yourself in the other person's shoes! The two of you are so good at educating us...and doing it spontaneously! I laughed out loud when Ryan admitted he sometimes mocks back to a person that thinks he/she is funny by just flapping their hands about to a deaf person! I love this Channel, and suggest it to everyone...

[@kimberlywilliams8564]

.....but I want to see the dog 😂

[@jsknox5093]

I am new to learning ASL and honestly sometimes it's really hard for me to talk and sign at the same time and I tend to get flustered but I've noticed with practice certain things are getting better. Often times I get kinda shy with my gesturing but I've made sure to learn enough to let a deaf person I am talking to know I am learning and I am a little slow at it :) I love these videos it definitely helps someone new like me feel more confident and definitely helps me kinda get to know the community more

[@catherinetaylor8608]

Going through the customs in Miami airport, we were exhausted and sick (2 years prior to pandemic). Standing in the line, I saw a shadow of a security guard and I looked at her. She was basically saying to me that not to use the phone and pointing at the sign that I didn’t see before, but as soon as she saw that I’m deaf, she repeated herself, raised her voice and moved her hand mimicking sign language, pretending she knows what she’s doing and everyone is watching due to her loud voice when she talked to me. I was in disbelief, but my husband immediately said at the same voice level, “What is that?” ... pointing her hand and mimicked back ... “That’s not sign language.” She was caught off guard and slowly walked away. All I could do is laugh and shake my head. Wow ... Still, I appreciate your video and it will help spread the awareness of how to interact with people who are deaf. Thank you annnnnnd what a cute couple you guys are! 🙂

[@maria2162]

Any gesture to community with another person is a wonderful gesture

[@jordanpruitt5497]

I feel like I would get so embarrassed when trying to communicate with a deaf person because I would DEFINITELY misspell my name and would just keep signing “sorry” over and over again😂

[@masuganut2082]

I’m trying not to cry. I don’t know any deaf people but it hurts my heart that people would mock a deaf person. And to be so alienated because of not being able to hear when it’s not a choice. I tend to get very upset when I talk about it so I can’t even imagine how upsetting it must be for you both. My mother was born in the fifties and she’s always wanted to learn signing ❤️ Thank you for the after clip on the gesturing in the restaurant. ❤️

[@janetwilliams7626]

Watching your videos makes me miss all of my deaf customers 😭😭😭 Before we closed, I managed a bookstore. We had a few Deaf regulars. I remember the first time i met one of our Deaf couples....they were trying to talk/write with one of my coworkers when I was coming back from lunch. They were trying so hard to find what they needed. And my coworker was doing his best to help them. I watched a bit of their conversation between themselves in ASL as they struggled to figure out how to convey to my associate what they wanted. I walked over to the shelf, picked up the book and brought it to the counter. I introduced myself in ASL, then stepped in to interpret so that my coworker could finish the transaction. Jaws dropped all around, cuz no one knew I could sign. (My childhood friend went to Riverside residential, woot woot for So-Cal!) The couple were so relieved that they could communicate, and my coworker was "mock" mad at me for my skillz. Apparently, word spread in our Deaf community, cuz we wound up with several families or individuals who became regulars. I educated my staff to use whatever method was comfortable: text, writing, gesturing in the event that I was not there. Most importantly, i taught my people that EYE CONTACT was important and appreciated in our Deaf community. I miss them all so very much. These videos are doing wonders for my receptive skills that are going rusty in isolation & lockdowns, so THANK YOU!!!

[@user-bq2pv3ql5d]

i'm so glad you two have found each other! ))

[@MsJeanneMarie]

Ryan, what do you do for a living? I’m curious about how different jobs accommodate people who are deaf and hard of hearing.

[@dragletsofmakara1120]

This is an old post, but I’d still like to answer. I’m not deaf, but my work partner is. We have the same job but during different shifts of the day. I work mornings, he works evenings. We work on a loading dock where semi trucks make deliveries. One part of the job is expeditor relief. That means when the expeditor is on lunch or vacation, we take over full responsibility which includes arriving trucks, answering a doorbell, and answering the phone. I don’t know how he answers the phone, but I know he does. The trucks have a strict schedule, so they know to stand next to their trucks when they arrive. It’s mostly the same drivers over and over, so my partner has built a relationship with each one. As for the doorbell, there is a flashing light above the door. Apparently, the flashing light is set to such a frequency that it mimics the effects of an alarm. I barely notice the flashing, but my partner always sees it. Another part of our job is to receive and dispatch special items on the trucks. We work in an office next to the dock. When a truck arrives with one of these items, I get paged on the intercom, and I go receive it. But for my partner, the expeditor flicks a switch on the dock, which activates a flashing light in our office, so he knows to go out and collect. If he needs to dispatch these items, he writes a note and tapes it to the dock door of the particular truck. For me, I stand at the door of my office and scream the drivers name. My partner loves to laugh and make jokes, talking about movies, video games, and family. He has partially trained me and has helped me more times than I can count. It takes patience and concentration to understand what he says, thus my listening skills have improved. He has made me a better person. Now if only he would shut up so I can get some work done. ( meant as a playful jab, not an insult). :)

[@MsJeanneMarie]

@@dragletsofmakara1120 haha yeah, when I meet people with accents, if I can’t understand them right away, in time, my brain starts to get used to it and it becomes easy to understand them. I’d assume it would be similar talking with people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Thanks for the info!

[@lucil1171]

I love how you look at him in the eyes and still know what hes saying. Anyways, i have an experience that I wanted to share. So i was in a soccer game and a guy came because he was selling keychains for 2 dollars for support but he was deaf and I did not know what to say or do but I just smiled at him and made sure he knew I said thank you or that i was thankful. I found your channel recently but i hope that i learn more with you two. ❤❤

[@CoffeeScribe]

AWWW, They're so cute! :) ...such a nice hug. And good for you to mock them back as people shouldn't be treating anyone in a rude way ever. At least you smiled, haha... and, thanks for letting me in on your life/world as that helped me a lot.

[@pandabrooke]

I'm living your videos! I took an ASL class about 12 years ago and never was able to practice much. I find myself recalling more again.