Cheering on Siblings with AAC: Fall Sports Edition

Fall sports season is here and in full swing! From soccer fields to football stadiums to field hockey sidelines, families spend a lot of time outside cheering on their athletes. If your child uses an AAC device, this is a perfect opportunity to build in language that lets them be part of the action—routing for their sibling, joining the crowd’s energy, and sharing the experience.

We have some ideas for you on what language to consider or add to a sibling’s AAC system, how to organize it for quick access, and tips for protecting devices while you’re out on the field.

Language to Add for Sideline Cheering

Think about the things siblings love to shout from the stands! You can pre-program or make sure the device has access to:

Here’s some examples using LAMP Words for Life (Minspeak icons)!

Psst! Do you need these in our icon sequences such as WordPower Symbol Stix or another system?! Let us know at voiceheardaac@gmail.com

On top of these general cheers, sibling shouts and specific sport terms, there’s also some general comments and questions we can use.

• Social Sharing

• “This game is so exciting!”

• “Who’s winning?”

• “I’m cold/hot/hungry.”

• “Can we get snacks?”

Tip: Consider what’s already on the child’s AAC system. What makes most sense of where to put these phrases, exclamations or questions? Maybe you could make a ‘sports shout outs” page under “Sports,” or maybe your “sports” page has the space. 

Tips for Routing and Cheering

• Use Predictable Phrases: Encourage your child to hit “Go [Name]!” every time their sibling is on the field—it builds rhythm and anticipation.

• Pair Gestures + Device: They can clap, wave, or jump while using their device to add energy.

Modeling Counts: Parents or siblings can model cheers on the device too, so it becomes part of the family’s cheering routine.

Protecting AAC Devices Outdoors 🌦️

Sports fields mean predicted and unpredicted weather, grass (lots of grass!), dirt, and sometimes long days outside. Here’s how to keep your child’s device safe and functional:

• Cases & Straps: Use a durable case with a handle or strap so it’s easy to carry and won’t get dropped.

• Weather Protection: A clear rain cover or even a large zip-top bag can keep devices safe from drizzle or damp grass.

• Sunlight & Glare: If possible, position the device so it’s shaded (a hat brim or blanket can help) and brightness is turned up.

• Battery Life: Fully charge before the game and carry a small portable power bank if you’ll be out for hours.

Back-Up Plan: If the device is ever unusable, have a laminated paper board with core and sport-specific phrases so your child can still cheer along.

Sports aren’t just for the athletes on the field—they’re family events! By adding fun cheers, sport-specific phrases, and social comments into your child’s AAC system, you open the door for them to share in the excitement, encourage their sibling, and join the community on the sidelines.

This fall, let’s make sure every voice—spoken or through AAC—is heard loud and clear from the stands. 🧡

If you need sport phrase ideas, or need to know how to program these into your child’s AAC system, just shoot us a message!