Take Care in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign for “take care” in Auslan expresses a warm sentiment of well-wishing and concern for someone’s well-being. It’s often used when parting ways, showing that you care about the other person’s health and safety. This sign fosters a sense of community and connection within the Deaf community.

How to Sign “Take Care”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like a “B” handshape) and your palm facing toward your body.
2. Position your hand near your chest, just to the side of your sternum.
3. Move your hand outward, away from your body, while maintaining the flat handshape.
4. As you make this movement, add a gentle facial expression that conveys warmth and concern.
5. Finish the sign by bringing your hand back in close to your chest, reaffirming the connection and care you are expressing.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use facial expressions, which are crucial for conveying the emotional tone of the sign.
• Using a fist instead of a flat handshape, which changes the meaning of the sign.
• Not moving the hand outward far enough, making the sign unclear or less impactful.

Related Signs

• 1 – The sign for the number one.
• 1 Dollar – A way to express a dollar amount in signs.
• 10 – The sign for the number ten.
• 100 – Represents the number one hundred.
• 11 – The sign for the number eleven.

Using “Take Care” in Everyday Conversations

The sign “Take Care” is often used in casual conversations to show concern or affection for someone’s well-being. Here are a few example sentences that illustrate how to integrate this sign into everyday dialogue:

1. YOU LEAVE, TAKE CARE!
2. AFTER VISIT, TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF!
3. FRIEND SICK, I SAY TAKE CARE!

These phrases can be used in various contexts, such as when saying goodbye to a friend, expressing care for someone after a visit, or offering encouragement to someone who is unwell. The sign creates a warm, supportive atmosphere and reinforces your connection with the person you are communicating with.

Cultural Notes

Within the Australian Deaf community, “Take Care” carries a deeper meaning than simply wishing someone well. It reflects a sense of solidarity and communal support that is integral to Deaf culture. The use of this sign often transcends spoken language, embodying the values of empathy and friendship prevalent among Deaf individuals.

In terms of dialect, there may be slight variations in the execution of the sign between northern and southern regions of Australia. While the fundamental gesture remains the same, nuances in facial expressions and non-manual features may differ, reflecting local cultural influences. Being aware of these variations can enhance your communication and connection with members of the Deaf community.

Tips for Learning This Sign

To effectively learn and remember the sign “Take Care,” consider the following practical tips:

• Mirror Practice: Stand in front of a mirror while practicing the sign. This allows you to observe your handshape and movement, ensuring accuracy.
• Watch for Non-Manual Features: Pay attention to facial expressions and body language while practicing. They can add emotional depth to your signing and enhance understanding.
• Use in Short Signed Sentences: Incorporate “Take Care” in simple phrases during conversations. This reinforces your learning and helps you remember the sign in context.

By integrating these strategies into your practice, you’ll find it easier to use “Take Care” naturally and confidently in your conversations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “take care” in a sentence?

You can say, “I will see you tomorrow, take care,” by signing both parts to convey your message clearly.

Are there regional variations for this sign?

What are similar signs to “take care”?

Signs like “goodbye” or “see you later” express similar sentiments but vary in context and emotional tone.

How does “take care” compare to BSL?

In BSL, the sign for “take care” has different handshapes and movements. It’s helpful to learn both if you are engaging with diverse Deaf communities.

What are some teaching tips for this sign?

Encourage students to practice with a partner to get comfortable with the movement and facial expressions. Watching fluent signers can also help.