One Year Oldone-Year-Old, 1 Year Oldkotahi Taunumeral in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “one year old” (kotahi tau) is commonly used in the NZ Deaf community to describe the age of a child or to indicate someone’s age. This sign is particularly useful in conversations about birthdays or when introducing young children. It reflects the importance of family and milestones within the Deaf culture.

How to Sign “One Year Oldone-Year-Old, 1 Year Oldkotahi Taunumeral” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat hand shape (like the palm is facing down).
2. Position your hand near your chest.
3. Move your hand slightly forward while maintaining the flat hand shape.
4. Simultaneously, show the number “1” by using your index finger to indicate one year.
5. Facial expression should be cheerful or neutral, reflecting the context of discussing age.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use the appropriate facial expressions, which are essential in NZSL for conveying meaning.
• Using the wrong hand shape; ensure your hand remains flat and not in a fist or other shape.
• Misplacing the hand’s starting position; it should be close to your chest for clarity.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “one year old” involves a flat hand moving slightly forward while indicating the number one with the index finger. In contrast, ASL uses a different handshape and motion, often incorporating more movement away from the signer’s body. Understanding these differences helps learners appreciate the unique characteristics of NZSL.

Related Signs

• (Baby’s) Dummy – Refers to a pacifier used for infants.
• (Be) Born, (Give) Birth – Sign used to indicate the act of being born.
• (Be) Careful – A sign to express caution, useful in many contexts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use “one year old” in a NZSL sentence?

You can incorporate it into sentences like “My baby is one year old” by placing the sign at the appropriate point in the sentence structure.

Are there any regional variations for this sign in New Zealand?

While the sign is generally consistent, some regional variations may exist, particularly in facial expressions or slight hand movements depending on local Deaf community influences.

What are similar signs to “one year old”?

Related signs include those for ages two and three, which follow similar hand shapes and movements.

What tips can help me learn this sign better?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your hand shape and position are correct, and pay attention to facial expressions, as they convey important information.

Can I use this sign for older ages as well?

This sign specifically means “one year old.” For older ages, you would use the respective number signs combined with the word for “year.”

Is “kotahi tau” used in other contexts?

Yes, “kotahi tau” can be used in various contexts beyond just age, such as discussing time frames related to events.