SignaPlay

OtherAI

SignaPlay

SignaPlay is an AI-powered, immersive learning platform designed to foster early sign language acquisition in deaf children and their families.

Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico

MEX

For-profit, including B-Corp or similar models

DHH (Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing) children start kindergarten with insufficient linguistic foundations. In Jalisco, Mexico, where approximately 75,000 individuals are deaf (INEGI, 2020), over 90% of DHH children are born into hearing families (Mitchell & Karchmer, 2004), and 72% of these families are unaware of Mexican Sign Language (Yoshinaga-Itano, 2003). This lack of early language exposure during the critical developmental window—birth to age five—leads to language deprivation (Humphries et al., 2012). 40% of the DHH population in Jalisco is illiterate, with many more facing varying degrees of linguistic exclusion (CONEVAL, 2022). Mexico counts 2.4-million deaf individuals, with 85,000 children under 14 (INEGI, 2020). Despite LSM’s recognition since 2005, access to bilingual education remains limited due to a shortage of trained educators and insufficient materials (Ramírez & Castillo, 2016). 34-million children are DHH (WHO, 2021). The WHO reports that 80% of these children reside in LMICs, where early detection and intervention are scarce (WHO, 2021). Only 2% of DHH children worldwide have early access to sign language (Humphries et al., 2012). Without foundational language development, they struggle with self-expression, learning, and community participation. This systemic issue results in 70% of the world’s 430 million DHH individuals being unemployed or underemployed (WFD, 2018).

SignaPlay is an interactive, AI-powered educational app designed to promote early sign language acquisition in Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing (DHH) children and support hearing families and organizations in building inclusive communication environments. The app delivers curriculum-aligned, age-tailored lessons that teach Mexican Sign Language (LSM) and other sign languages through immersive learning modules, storytelling, and real-life scenarios. At the heart of SignaPlay is Lexsi, a 3D AI-powered signing avatar that demonstrates accurate handshapes, facial expressions, and spatial grammar crucial for sign language learning. Using augmented reality (AR) technology, Lexsi brings sign language into the learner’s environment, making lessons engaging and contextually relevant. The avatar also provides real-time feedback using computer vision to recognize and assess users’ signing accuracy, enabling personalized learning. SignaPlay integrates gamified pathways for children and structured guidance for parents, including daily routines, visual prompts, and interactive exercises. It also includes culturally relevant content co-created with Deaf communities to ensure authenticity and inclusion. Designed to work across mobile devices, the platform is scalable, low-bandwidth optimized, and accessible even in underserved areas. By turning everyday moments into learning opportunities, SignaPlay empowers families to lay the linguistic foundations that help DHH children thrive.

SignaPlay primarily serves Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing (DHH) children aged 2–12 and their hearing families, particularly in underserved communities in Mexico. These children often face language deprivation due to the lack of early exposure to sign language, especially when born into hearing families—9 out of 10 DHH children globally (Mitchell & Karchmer, 2004). In places like Jalisco, Mexico, 40% of the DHH population is illiterate, reflecting systemic barriers to early language access and inclusive education. Hearing parents are often unaware of sign language and lack resources to support their child’s communication needs. SignaPlay addresses this by offering an accessible, evidence-based platform that equips families with the tools to build early linguistic foundations through sign language. The solution supports parents through guided lessons and daily interaction prompts, while engaging children with immersive and personalized learning powered by AI and AR. By strengthening language skills during critical developmental years, SignaPlay enhances cognitive, emotional, and social outcomes. It bridges the communication gap in families, promotes inclusive parenting, and prepares DHH children to succeed in school and life, ultimately reducing the educational and employment gaps that persist in the DHH community.