The sign for "parents" is generally done by doing the
sign for "MOM" and then the sign for "DAD."
(But you can start with "DAD" and then do "MOM" -- I reckon it depends on
which one you love most)
PARENTS:
Combine the signs "mom" and "dad" quickly as if doing one sign.
The thumb can either touch your chin and forehead or simply place your hand
near each surface without actually touching.
Advanced
reading. (OPTIONAL)
Note: I
was just kidding with the "which one you love most" comment. Either
way works fine. If the sign you do just before doing the sign "PARENTS"
happens to be a sign that is near the forehead then you might start with
"DAD" because that location is closer. For example, the sentence: "I
FORGOT (the) PARENT(s) NAME(s)!" might do the sign PARENT starting with
"DAD" because the sign FORGOT is done on the forehead and thus is in the
same location as DAD and there is economy of movement
PARENTS (initialized variation)
A student asks: Can you use the "P" hand shape for parents or should
you stick with just signing "mom and dad?" Is the "p" too English?
Response:
I recommend that if you are taking an ASL class you should "avoid" using
excessive initialization of signs that are clear without adding "English
letters." This is mostly to protect your grade from instructors who might
have a phobia about English letters. (Similar to how you shouldn't
bring your pet snake to class when your teacher has ophiophobia.)
However if you personally see others signing "PARENTS" using a "P" hand
shape you shouldn't wrinkle your nose about it because many Deaf do
use that version of the sign.