Sign Language

Occasionally at work I need to use sign language interpreters for the deaf. The deaf, and those who sign, have got to be the most demonstrative people in the world. The last few times I have used an interpreter I have begun to notice how much I use my hands when communicating. I begin to wonder if I should limit my hand gestures. I think about just putting my hands in my pockets to avoid misspeaking. Do the deaf have a filter?

When I am using an interpreter for a Spanish speaking patient I will throw in a little Spanish here and there, but I know that I'm doing it, and apparently they know what I am saying (not to mention I think most of them speak fairly decent English anyways). With the deaf, I have never tried to sign, but little gestures, pointing, etc. leave me thinking, "what did I just say?"

Speaking of Spanish, I have noticed that when I am studying Spanish in the car or on the iPod, I use my hands a lot. I think I do it for rhythm, but it probably looks like I'm studying Italian.