Category: Deaf Support

  • What Is a “Home Sign”?

    What Is a “Home Sign”? Ever wondered how Deaf children communicate when formal sign language hasn’t reached them yet? A home sign is a personal, improvised set of gestures invented by Deaf children—often at home—to express their thoughts and needs. This system isn’t taught nor widely shared, but it becomes the bridge that supports early…

  • Are There “Accents” in Sign Language?

    Are There “Accents” in Sign Language? When we think of accents, we usually imagine differences in spoken language—like the way English sounds in Manila compared to London or New York. But did you know that sign languages also have their own versions of “accents”? For the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community, these variations appear…

  • Why Learning Basic Sign Language Matters

    Why Learning Basic Sign Language Matters Language is more than just a tool for communication—it’s a bridge that connects people, cultures, and communities. For Deaf and Hard of Hearing Filipinos, Filipino Sign Language (FSL) is not only their primary means of communication but also a symbol of identity and pride. Learning even just the basics…

  • The Dos and Don’ts of Talking to Deaf People

    The Dos and Don’ts of Talking to Deaf People Communicating with Deaf and Hard of Hearing people is not just about words—it’s about respect, inclusivity, and understanding. Many hearing Filipinos feel unsure about how to interact with Deaf individuals, worrying they might offend or say the wrong thing. The truth is, building good communication is…