How to Sign “Cool” in ASL: Baby Sign Language Guide

Learning how to sign cool in ASL gives your child a way to communicate before words arrive. “Cool” is one of the most motivating signs to teach — toddlers love using it. An open hand wiggles at the chest. Most toddlers manage it between 14 and 18 months.

How to Sign “Cool” in ASL

ASL sign for cool, step 1: open hand held at the chest with fingers spread
ASL sign for cool, step 2: fingers wiggling at the chest

Photos: Rodasmith via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0

  1. Make the handshape: Spread all five fingers open on your dominant hand.
  2. Hold at chest level: Position the hand in front of your chest, palm inward.
  3. Wiggle the fingers: Shake the fingers in a loose, cheerful wiggle twice.

A loose, relaxed wiggle reads as “cool” or “awesome.” Keep it breezy.

Step-by-Step Photos

ASL sign for cool, step 1: open hand held at the chest with fingers spread
Step 1: Hold an open hand at your chest, fingers spread.
ASL sign for cool, step 2: fingers wiggling at the chest
Step 2: Wiggle the fingers twice at chest level.

Photos: Rodasmith via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0

When to Use It With Your Child

  • At exciting discoveries: The big truck rolls by — sign “cool!” with wide eyes.
  • At accomplishments: They stack all the blocks — “that is so cool!”
  • In books: When a character does something impressive, sign together.

Tips for Success

  • Toddlers adopt “cool” quickly because it brings a big reaction — lean into the enthusiasm.
  • Pair it with “more” so they can sign “more cool things!” at the park.
  • Also works for temperature-cool; context distinguishes the meanings.

Signs Related to “Cool”

“Awesome” (two A-hands shaking) and “wow” (open hand brushing the chin outward) cover the enthusiasm spectrum.

Positive descriptor signs like “cool” spread fast because using them brings immediate adult attention — a perfect feedback loop for learning.

More ASL Signs to Learn

Learn more: National Association of the Deaf — ASL resources and advocacy from the National Association of the Deaf.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I start teaching my baby how to sign cool in ASL?

You can introduce the sign for cool as early as 14–18 months. Babies understand signs before they can produce them, so start modeling it consistently and reward any attempt — even an approximation — with the item or action right away.

How long does it take for a baby to learn to sign cool?

Most babies begin producing a recognizable version of the sign for cool within two to four weeks of consistent daily modeling. Frequency matters more than perfect form at this stage — sign it every time the word comes up naturally in your routine.

Is the ASL sign for cool the same in baby sign language programs?

Yes. Most baby sign language programs teach the authentic ASL sign for cool. Using real ASL rather than invented gestures means your child’s signs will be understood by Deaf signers and build a foundation for learning more ASL as they grow.