How to Sign “Drink” in ASL – Baby Sign Language Guide

Teaching your toddler American Sign Language (ASL) opens a world of early communication. The sign for “drink” is one of the most useful signs for young children, helping them express themselves before they can speak clearly.

Use this sign when you’re thirsty and want something to drink!

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for performing the sign, along with a visual demonstration prompt you can use to generate or find an appropriate learning visual.

Table of Contents

How to Sign “Drink”

Category: Basic Needs

Instructions: Make a C shape with your hand like you’re holding a cup. Bring it to your mouth and tip it like you’re drinking.

Visual Demonstration

Watch an adult demonstrate this sign to see the proper hand position and movement. Focus on how the hands are shaped and the direction of motion.

For video demonstrations of this sign, visit ASL video dictionaries like Signing Savvy, Lifeprint, or HandSpeak. These resources show the sign from multiple angles with clear instructions.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

Follow these detailed steps to perform the sign correctly:

  1. Hand Shape: Dominant hand in C shape (curved like holding a cup)
  2. Movement: Bring C hand to mouth and tilt upward like drinking from a cup
  3. Facial Expression: Natural expression, lips slightly parted
  4. Practice: Repeat the sign 3-5 times while saying the word “drink” out loud

Teaching Tips for Parents

When teaching the sign for “drink” to your toddler, keep these tips in mind:

  • Be Consistent: Use the sign every time you say the word “drink”
  • Make Eye Contact: Ensure your child is watching your hands and face
  • Use It in Context: Sign “drink” when the concept naturally comes up in daily life
  • Celebrate Attempts: Even imperfect attempts should be praised
  • Repetition is Key: Use this sign multiple times throughout the day

When to Use This Sign

The sign for “drink” is useful in many everyday situations:

  • During mealtimes and snack time
  • While playing together
  • During daily routines like bath time or bedtime
  • When reading books or singing songs
  • Anytime the concept of “drink” naturally occurs

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Moving Too Fast: Slow down so your toddler can see the hand movements clearly
  • Forgetting Facial Expression: In ASL, facial expressions are part of the grammar
  • Not Being Patient: Babies may take weeks or months to sign back
  • Inconsistent Use: Try to use the sign every time you say the word

Practice Activities

Make learning fun with these activities:

  1. Sign and Sing: Create a simple song that uses the sign for “drink”
  2. Book Time: When you see “drink” in a picture book, make the sign
  3. Mirror Practice: Practice the sign together in front of a mirror
  4. Mealtime Signs: Use this sign during meals when appropriate
  5. Goodnight Signs: Include this sign in your bedtime routine if applicable

Frequently Asked Questions

What age can babies start learning to sign “drink”?

Babies can start recognizing signs as early as 6 months, though most begin signing back between 8-12 months. Start using the sign for “drink” consistently and your baby will pick it up when developmentally ready.

What if my toddler does the sign incorrectly?

This is completely normal. Just like first spoken words, first signs are often approximations. Continue modeling the correct sign while celebrating their attempts.

Will learning sign language delay my child’s speech?

Research shows that learning sign language actually supports language development. Babies who sign often speak earlier and have larger vocabularies because signing builds the foundation for communication.

How many times should I practice this sign each day?

Use the sign naturally whenever the concept comes up in daily life. Aim for at least 5-10 repetitions spread throughout the day for best results.

Related Signs to Learn

Once your child masters “drink”, consider teaching these related signs:

  • More – For requesting more of something
  • Please – For polite requests
  • Thank You – For expressing gratitude
  • All Done – For signaling completion

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This guide was created to help parents and caregivers teach ASL to toddlers. For comprehensive ASL instruction, consider working with a certified ASL instructor or deaf educator.