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

“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

ASL sign for who, step 1: L-shaped hand with thumb at the chin
ASL sign for who, step 2: index finger flexed at the chin

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

  1. Make the L: Extend your thumb and index finger, other fingers closed.
  2. Anchor the thumb: Rest the thumb tip on your chin, index finger up.
  3. 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

ASL sign for who, step 1: L-shaped hand with thumb at the chin
Step 1: Touch your thumb to your chin, index finger pointing up.
ASL sign for who, step 2: index finger flexed at the chin
Step 2: Flex the index finger down and up a few times.

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.