Resources for International Week of Deaf People and International Day of Sign Languages

Each year, International Week of Deaf People (21-27 September) and the International Day of Sign Languages (23 September) provide an opportunity to celebrate Deaf culture, raise awareness of the Deaf community, and encourage people to learn more about sign language and accessible communication.

Whether you’re working with young people, schools, community groups or youth organisations, the following resources offer fun and engaging ways to explore British Sign Language (BSL).

Learn the BSL Alphabet

BSL fingerspelling is often a great starting point for learning sign language. Resources are available which include:

• Right-handed and left-handed BSL fingerspelling alphabet charts
• Versions featuring light and dark skin tones
• Printable resources suitable for group activities and displays

These can be used to help young people learn how to spell their names, communicate simple words and build confidence using BSL.

BSL Word Searches

A range of themed BSL word searches are available, including:

• Greetings
• Feelings and emotions
• Nature
• Animals

These activities provide a fun introduction to common BSL vocabulary while encouraging discussion about communication and inclusion.

Create Names and Messages in BSL

The following free tool allows users to generate fingerspelling images for names, words or short messages:

Print a word in BSL fingerspelling:
https://www.british-sign.co.uk/print-a-word-in-fingerspelling

If you have access to a printer, this can be a great way to create personalised resources for young people to take away and practise at home.

Interactive BSL Activities

The British Sign website also offers a variety of free interactive resources, including:

• BSL quizzes
• Fingerspelling mazes
• Greeting card maker activities
• Additional learning tools and practice exercises

Explore the full range of resources here:

British Sign Learning Resources:
https://www.british-sign.co.uk

Promoting Inclusion Through Communication

Learning even a few words or phrases in BSL can help promote understanding, inclusion and awareness of the Deaf community. International Week of Deaf People and the International Day of Sign Languages are an excellent opportunity to start conversations about accessibility, communication and the importance of recognising and valuing different ways of connecting with others.