Learn British Sign Language
We provide free sign language courses for families with children who have any type or level of deafness. Learn British Sign Language (BSL) online with our group courses or practice classes.
Our curriculum is based on BSL but focuses on signs that families with young children will use regularly at home. To make sure you get to learn signs local to where you live in the UK, we set up breakout rooms at our online sessions for England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
Free sign language courses for families
Join our free online group course to learn everyday BSL signs alongside other families.
Family Sign Language 1: Introductory course (September)
Who’s it for
- Families with a deaf child 0 to 5 years old.
- Children are welcome to join.
- No previous experience of sign language needed.
- Up to six family members can join, including siblings, grandparents or other relatives.
What you'll learn
To help you develop communication within the home, you’ll learn signs you can include in your daily routines. Our experienced deaf tutors will cover a range of topics, including fingerspelling, family, food and drink, emotions and lots more.
When and where
- Every Thursday for six consecutive weeks
- Starts 19 September 2024, 7.30pm to 8.30pm
- Online via Zoom
If you complete four or more sessions of our Family Sign Language course, you can join our follow-on course, Family Sign Language 2: Next Steps.
Free practice classes
Come along to one of our free online sign language classes to practise your BSL skills and develop your vocabulary.
Family Sign Language: Olympics Special
Who's it for
- Families with a deaf child 0 to 5 years old.
- Children are welcome to join.
What you'll learn
Whether you are new to sign language, want to practise your skills or learn some additional signs, come and join us for a fun session! Our experienced tutors will teach you lots of signs relating to the upcoming Olympics.
When and where
- Tuesday 23 July 2024, 12pm to 1pm
- Online via Zoom
Family Sign Language: Autumn Special
Who's it for
- Families with a deaf child 0 to 5 years old.
- Children are welcome to join.
What you'll learn
Whether you are new to signing, want to practise your skills or learn some additional signs, come and join us for a fun session! Our experienced tutors will teach you lots of signs relating to autumn.
When and where
- Tuesday 3 September 2024, 7pm to 8pm
- Online via Zoom
What other families thought…
“The course has been amazing and has taught us the basic signs needed to help my daughter with her communication. I would definitely recommend the course to others. We learnt so many signs that are now incorporated into our daily routines. Thank you so much!”
Vicky, parent of a deaf child
Joining our online events
We'll have experts on hand to support you in joining the event online. You can also watch or download our guide to joining online events.
Zoom auto-generated captions and BSL interpreters will be available.
Contact us
If you have any questions or require any other communication or language support, please email [email protected].