Sign Language
Irish Sign Language (ISL) is the main sign language in Ireland. Its grammar and syntax are very different to spoken or written Irish or English.
English is the second language for many ISL users, which means literacy levels in deaf children and adults can be impacted if support is not given.
ISL and British Sign Language are both used in Northern Ireland. British Sign Language (BSL) is used in Britain, and by a small minority in Ireland.
Deaf children and their parents in Ireland have several ways to learn ISL.
Children can learn through:
- Home ISL teaching (Department of Education)
- Simply Signing (for baby, parents and family, too)
- School, or from other Deaf people
Parents and / or family can take classes at:
- The ISL Academy *
- Trinity College Centre for Deaf Studies
- IrishDeaf.com *
- DeafHear.ie *
- Local VEC or community colleges (enquire)
* ISL posters, DVDs, books and cards may be available at these classes.
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