Can you only use your hands in sign language?

That's a great question! While hands are the most prominent part of sign language, it's not the only part of the body used. Here's a breakdown:

Hands: Hands are essential for forming the signs themselves. They are used to create different shapes, positions, and movements.

Face: Facial expressions play a crucial role in sign language. They can change the meaning of a sign, indicate grammar, and convey emotion. Think of eyebrows, eyes, and mouth movements!

Body: The body can be used to emphasize signs, provide additional context, and even form signs in some cases. Think of leaning forward for emphasis or shifting your body position to indicate direction.

Space: The space around the signer is also important. This is used to indicate things like location, size, or movement.

So, while hands are the main tool, sign language involves a holistic use of the body to communicate effectively.