Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Be Kind"

To sign 'be kind', start by holding your non-dominant hand flat in front of you with the palm facing up. Place your dominant hand flat on top of it, with the palm facing down. Smoothly slide your dominant hand forward across the palm of your non-dominant hand.

Examples Using "Be Kind" in a Sentence

1

Please be kind to others.

Sign 'please', then use the smooth sliding motion of 'be kind', and finish by signing 'others'.

2

She is a very kind person.

Point to the person for 'she', sign 'very', use the 'be kind' sign, and then sign 'person'.

3

It is important to be kind.

You can express this by signing 'important', and then emphasizing the 'be kind' sign with a gentle facial expression.

How to Sign "Be Kind"
To sign 'be kind', start by holding your non-dominant hand flat in front of you with the palm facing up. Place your dominant hand flat on top of it, with the palm facing down. Smoothly slide your dominant hand forward across the palm of your non-dominant hand.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is also commonly used for the words 'nice' and 'clean'. The visual motivation comes from the idea of smoothing a surface out or wiping it clean. This smooth, unobstructed action metaphorically extends to pleasant, kind behavior and interactions free of roughness or conflict.
Signing Tips
Keep your fingers together and your hands flat to make the sign look neat. The movement should be a single, smooth glide forward, reflecting the gentle meaning of the word. Ensure your non-dominant hand remains completely still as a supportive base.
Common Mistakes
Beginners sometimes rub their hands back and forth, which can look like you are trying to warm your hands. Make sure the dominant hand only slides forward once. Another mistake is moving both hands; remember that only the top hand should move.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Be Kind" in a Sentence
1

Please be kind to others.

Sign 'please', then use the smooth sliding motion of 'be kind', and finish by signing 'others'.

2

She is a very kind person.

Point to the person for 'she', sign 'very', use the 'be kind' sign, and then sign 'person'.

3

It is important to be kind.

You can express this by signing 'important', and then emphasizing the 'be kind' sign with a gentle facial expression.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why is this the same sign as 'nice'?

In ASL, a single sign can represent multiple related English concepts. The smooth, pleasant motion of this sign perfectly captures the essence of both being 'nice' and being 'kind', so the same sign is used for both.

Do I need to use a specific facial expression?

Yes, facial expressions are crucial in ASL. When signing 'be kind', you should have a soft, pleasant, or gentle expression to match the positive, warm meaning of the word.

Which hand should do the moving?

Your dominant hand should be the one on top that slides forward. Your non-dominant hand serves as the stationary base underneath and should not move during the sign.

ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!