Daily-attention sign
SMELL
Wave an open palm up past your nose
How to Sign “Smell” Step by Step
The ASL sign for smell wave an open palm up past your nose — like wafting a scent.
Like wafting a scent. Get your hands into position before starting the motion.
Wave an open palm up past your nose.
Repeat the motion two times so the sign reads clearly. That’s smell.
Memory trick for parents: Picture the motion: like wafting a scent. The mime is the meaning.
When to Use the Sign for “Smell” With Your Baby
Use the sign for smell naturally throughout the day:
- During the moments when smell comes up in your routine
- When reading books that feature smell
- 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 “smell”
If the gesture is consistent and means “smell”, 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 smell?
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 smell?
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.