How to Sign "Kindergarten"

To sign kindergarten, hold your non-dominant hand flat in front of you with the palm facing down. Form a 'K' shape with your dominant hand by extending your index and middle fingers, and resting your thumb between them. Place your dominant 'K' hand underneath your non-dominant hand and shake it slightly from side to side.

Examples Using "Kindergarten" in a Sentence

1

My daughter is starting kindergarten.

Sign 'my', 'daughter', 'start', and then use the sign for kindergarten by shaking the 'K' hand under your flat non-dominant hand.

2

He is a kindergarten teacher.

Point to the person to sign 'he', sign 'kindergarten', and then sign 'teacher' by adding the person marker.

3

I loved kindergarten.

Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'love' by crossing your arms over your chest, and finish with the sign for kindergarten.

How to Sign "Kindergarten"
To sign kindergarten, hold your non-dominant hand flat in front of you with the palm facing down. Form a 'K' shape with your dominant hand by extending your index and middle fingers, and resting your thumb between them. Place your dominant 'K' hand underneath your non-dominant hand and shake it slightly from side to side.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is an initialized version of the concept for 'under' or 'basic'. The 'K' handshape stands for 'kindergarten', and placing it under the flat hand represents the foundational or lower level of a child's education.
Signing Tips
Keep your non-dominant hand steady and flat like a roof. The movement should only come from your dominant hand shaking side to side underneath it. Make sure your 'K' handshape is clear, with the thumb resting between the index and middle fingers.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is moving both hands instead of keeping the non-dominant hand still. Another frequent error is using a 'V' handshape (peace sign) instead of a 'K' handshape; remember to place your thumb between your extended fingers.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Kindergarten" in a Sentence
1

My daughter is starting kindergarten.

Sign 'my', 'daughter', 'start', and then use the sign for kindergarten by shaking the 'K' hand under your flat non-dominant hand.

2

He is a kindergarten teacher.

Point to the person to sign 'he', sign 'kindergarten', and then sign 'teacher' by adding the person marker.

3

I loved kindergarten.

Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'love' by crossing your arms over your chest, and finish with the sign for kindergarten.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the sign for kindergarten similar to the sign for 'under'?

It uses the spatial concept of being 'under' to represent that kindergarten is the foundational or lower level of elementary school. It is initialized with a 'K' handshape to specifically mean kindergarten.

Can I use this sign for 'preschool'?

No, preschool has its own sign. Preschool is often signed by combining 'before' and 'school', or by using a 'P' handshape. The sign shown here is specifically used for kindergarten.

Does it matter which hand is on top?

Yes, your non-dominant hand should be the flat hand on top, acting as the stationary base. Your dominant hand should be the 'K' handshape moving underneath it.

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