Sharing sign
TAKE
Reach a claw hand forward and pull it back into a fist at your chest
How to Sign “Take” Step by Step
The ASL sign for take reach a claw hand forward and pull it back into a fist at your chest — like grabbing and pulling.
Like grabbing and pulling. Get your hands into position before starting the motion.
Reach a claw hand forward and pull it back into a fist at your chest.
Repeat the motion two times so the sign reads clearly. That’s take.
Memory trick for parents: Picture the motion: like grabbing and pulling. The mime is the meaning.
When to Use the Sign for “Take” With Your Baby
Use the sign for take naturally throughout the day:
- During the moments when take comes up in your routine
- When reading books that feature take
- Pair with more and please for early sentences
What Your Toddler’s Version Will Look Like
Expect a friendly approximation at first — refinement comes with practice:
- A simplified one-handed version of the motion
- Pointing at the thing and looking at you
- A baby-babble approximation of “take”
If the gesture is consistent and means “take”, honor it — respond as if they said the word. The tidy adult version comes later.
Mistakes to avoid when modeling the sign
- Don’t rush the motion — pause for eye contact before signing.
- Keep the handshape consistent so baby can copy it.
- Always say the word out loud while you sign — the pairing is what teaches.
Signs to Learn Next
Frequently Asked Questions
When can my baby copy the sign for take?
Most babies begin approximating this sign around 12–16 months. Honor any clear approximation as a real attempt.
What if my toddler uses a simpler version of take?
That’s exactly what you want at first — respond as if they signed it perfectly. The adult form will refine on its own with steady modeling.