Pool-time sign
SWIM
Two flat hands push outward from your chest in a swimming stroke
How to Sign “Swim” Step by Step
The ASL sign for swim two flat hands push outward from your chest in a swimming stroke — like front-crawl arms.
Like front-crawl arms. Get your hands into position before starting the motion.
Two flat hands push outward from your chest in a swimming stroke.
Repeat the motion two times so the sign reads clearly. That’s swim.
Memory trick for parents: Picture the motion: like front-crawl arms. The mime is the meaning.
When to Use the Sign for “Swim” With Your Baby
Use the sign for swim naturally throughout the day:
- During the moments when swim comes up in your routine
- When reading books that feature swim
- 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 “swim”
If the gesture is consistent and means “swim”, 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 swim?
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 swim?
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.