Japanese Sign Language Basics for Kids: 10 Simple Signs to Start With
Japanese Sign Language (日本手話, nihon shuwa) is a vibrant visual language. Even little learners can pick up simple signs like ありがとう (thank you) and おはよう (good morning) to communicate non-verbally. This guide shares ten easy JSL signs, playful games, and everyday routines to make learning both fun and meaningful.
10 Simple Signs to Start With
Teach two signs per session, modeling slowly and letting children mirror your movements:
おはよう (ohayō, good morning) – Place open palm beside forehead and move outward in a sunrise gesture.
こんにちは (konnichiwa, hello) – Flat hand waves from side-to-side at chest level.
ありがとう (arigatō, thank you) – Flat hand touches chin then moves forward.
お願いします (onegaishimasu, please) – Hands together at chest, then slightly bow.
はい (hai, yes) – Nod closed fist up and down like a head.
いいえ (iie, no) – Index and middle fingers tap thumb like a beak.
もっと (motto, more) – Fingers of both flat hands tap together twice.
やめて (yamete, stop) – One flat hand chops down onto the other palm.
水 (mizu, water) – “W” shape with fingers taps chin twice.
食べる (taberu, eat) – Flat hand taps mouth twice.
Practice each sign slowly, repeating the Japanese word aloud as you show the movement.
Activities & Games
Sign Charades
Write the ten sign words on cards and place them face down. Children draw a card, perform the sign silently, and others guess the word in Japanese—「ありがとう！」.
Mirror Me
Stand facing each child with a small mirror. Model one sign and let them copy both the movement and the spoken word—perfect for self-check and giggles.
Practice Corner
Hang a “JSL Wall” near the door with printed images of each sign. When kids leave the room, they choose one sign to perform and say—「おはよう！」 or 「水！」—before heading out.
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Final Thoughts
Starting JSL with ten simple signs gives kids a friendly introduction to non-verbal communication. Combine charades, mirror drills, and Dinolingo’s visual modules to make sign language as natural as saying こんにちは—both in voice and hands.
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