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.



PARENTS (casual version):

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.