DigiTribe Online
Alternative Provision

For a socially awkward, lonely child there are not many places in today’s society where they can just be themselves- here, they can. They can play without fear of being ridiculed or judged, are welcomed wholeheartedly and can just be themselves. For parents- it means they can breathe for those 2 hours, content in the knowledge that their child is not only safe, but very very happy. These mine mania and meet up sessions are the closest thing my child has had to having a friend, and better yet, it’s not just one friend, it’s a group of them. The ethos behind Rachel’s philosophy that every child should have a chance to play is so simple, yet brilliant. It’s simplicity should not underestimate it’s vital importance- I can tell you first hand, having a child who can get through a day at school and all the bullying that comes with it, just because they have a Saturday club meet up the following day, is priceless.”

We have noticed a fantastic improvement in letter recognition, and lately too with sight words. He has even started understanding some of the chat content with his Minemania friends by recognising words and inferring the content. And just last week he had been replying back by sounding out and attempting words! This is by far the most positive impact on his literacy, as it is not perceived as a demand and he is happy to engage. Due to anxiety, sensory avoidance and his other various issues, he struggles with meeting people, forming friendships and maintaining relationships. He has found the twice weekly online Minemania sessions and fortnightly Saturday sessions absolutely fantastic to be able to make friends in a non judgemental and supportive environment where he feels accepted and just like everyone else. He will often say things like “I love my friends” or “I’m so excited to see my friends”.

It is a great opportunity and something he enjoys and is good at. It has increased his interest, confidence and belief in his abilities at a very difficult time in his life so again, we feel very lucky to have found this club.”

He has never been confident enough to attend video calls independently until we discovered your server. He couldn’t even partake in online schooling during lockdown so we are very grateful for you and all the volunteers.”