Learning how to sign who in ASL gives your child a way to communicate before words arrive. “Who” lives at the chin, where a curious finger crooks at the mystery person. It rounds out the toddler question words and fuels every doorbell, photo album, and storybook.
How to Sign “Who” in ASL
Photos: Rodasmith via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
- Make the L: Extend your thumb and index finger, other fingers closed.
- Anchor the thumb: Rest the thumb tip on your chin, index finger up.
- Crook the finger: Bend and straighten the index finger a few times, brows lowered.
Some signers circle the finger around the lips instead — both versions are standard; the chin-anchor version is easier for small hands.
Step-by-Step Photos
Photos: Rodasmith via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
When to Use It With Your Child
- At the door: Doorbell rings — “Who is it?” with wide eyes and the sign.
- With photos: Family albums are who-flashcards: sign, point, name.
- In stories: “Who ate the porridge?” — every page has a who.
Tips for Success
- Doorbells and knocks are the perfect built-in drill — never waste one.
- A finger anywhere near the chin counts early on.
- Answer every “who” immediately with the name — question signs grow when they reliably summon answers.
Signs Related to “Who”
“Name” is the natural companion — who plus name covers introductions. “What” and “where” complete the question kit most signing families teach as a set.
Wh-words emerge in a reliable order in toddler language: what and where first, who close behind, why and how trailing by months — in sign and speech alike.
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 who in ASL?
You can introduce the sign for who 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 who?
Most babies begin producing a recognizable version of the sign for who 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 who the same in baby sign language programs?
Yes. Most baby sign language programs teach the authentic ASL sign for who. 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.