Indianapolis Family Shows ASL Bonding With Newborn

The Haney family is highlighting the role of American Sign Language in everyday communication with their two-day-old infant.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Special Needs

Gouache-painted illustration showing gentle adult hands gesturing near a swaddled infant, conveying themes of family bonding and communication. — The Haney family in Indianapolis emphasizes the role of American Sign Language to foster deep, intentional connection with their newborn daughter, Matilda. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Would you actively incorporate American Sign Language into your daily household communication?

An Indianapolis family's viral video captures a father communicating with his two-day-old daughter, Matilda, using American Sign Language. The clip highlights the everyday communication methods used by Robert and Maggie Haney in their home.

Why it matters

For households navigating non-verbal communication, the viral moment underscores the importance of intentional connection and eye contact in early infant development. Establishing these communication patterns early on is a key part of family logistics for the Haney household.

The Haney family includes parents Robert and Maggie and their three children: Robby, 9, Mylah, 4, and 2-day-old Matilda. The household relies on American Sign Language, lip reading, and simultaneous communication to manage daily life.

The players

Robert Haney

An Indianapolis father who uses American Sign Language, lip reading, and speaking to communicate after losing his hearing at age 3.

Maggie Haney

An Indianapolis mother who utilizes simultaneous communication by signing and speaking to her children.

The details

In the Haney home, effective communication relies on maintaining direct eye contact between all participants. Parents Robert and Maggie utilize unique ASL name signs assigned based on individual personality traits to ensure every family member remains engaged. This practice facilitates seamless interaction between the couple and their children throughout the day.

Robert Haney lost his hearing at age 3 after contracting meningitis.
The viral video was filmed at 3 a.m. when Matilda was 2 days old.

The Home Front

Integrating American Sign Language into a household's daily flow is a recognized strategy for families managing diverse communication needs. This practice aligns with established linguistic approaches to supporting inclusive, multi-modal environments at home.

Families interested in incorporating ASL into their daily routines should focus on maintaining consistent eye contact during every interaction. Establishing personalized name signs based on personality traits can also help build a stronger sense of identity and engagement for children.

The takeaway

Effective household communication often relies on intentional habits that prioritize physical engagement and clarity. Families can adapt these strategies by developing their own unique name signs or consistent gestures to reinforce connection across all ages.