Otis’s story – Peterborough.
Once introduced to Fun United Juniors Otis was eager to find a community he could belong to, and our youth group provided the ideal opportunity.
Initially, he struggled.
Otis’s behaviour was often challenging, marked by reluctance to engage with peers or team members. He resisted participating in activities and appeared unsettled. From the outside looking in – it was like he was searching for his place but was unable to find it.
The first small group Otis joined didn’t align, so we tried a second Saturday morning group and during this transition something just clicked.
Everything started to fall into place.
The right environment, the right team, and the right group of peers.
A space in which he could be himself and enjoy the activities on offer.
At his own pace, he was able to build trust, communicate and play with those around him. Moments where he felt anxious, which translated to challenging behaviours, began to lessen.
This breakthrough, however, revealed another obstacle. Otis was finding it difficult to connect with peers whose communication needs differed from his own.
Otis was only 10.
For him to thrive we decided to trial another group – the Saturday afternoon group. Whilst the group comprised of slightly older children, this change was pivotal, as the dynamics better matched his needs. A seamless transition resulted in behavioural changes that set the scene for Otis to grow beyond expectation.
Since, he’s actively participated in group activities such as biscuit decorating and messy play – milestones that were previously unimaginable. He has also started to interact more with his peers, sharing resources, and even showing team members his favourite cartoons, proudly drawing characters.
Otis has developed key empathy skills, where he has learned the valuable skills of patience and understanding, especially of other people’s needs.
By the time Otis turned 11, it was clear he was ready for the next step: the Fun United group. Without hesitation, he has embraced a new challenge yet again. In this larger, more dynamic environment, he has continued to thrive.
His confidence has soared.
He’s also discovered his own voice, charming others with his humour and warmth.
Otis is well-liked and has made several friends, embracing new activities such as our scavenger hunts, board games, and getting stuck in to games of hide-and-seek.
His presence at every session has become one of calm, joy, and engagement. From a boy who once resisted connection, he has progressed so far. He is becoming a confident young individual, who not only enjoys himself but also enriches the experience for those around him.
