Stepping Out of Invisibility: Making Connections and Having Fun at MTT

MTT is an after-school club designed for neurodiverse teenagers aged 11 to 18, which runs from 3:30 to 6:30 pm every Thursday during term time at Mint Street. A welcoming and inclusive space for socialising, relaxing, and making friends, we provide a structured yet fun environment where teens can be themselves, unwind and form meaningful connections with others.

In this article, we give you the insider’s perspective of what goes on at MTT. We consider how the activities foster connection, build confidence, and offer a sense of belonging for those who may often feel socially isolated. Let’s dive into the fun and meaningful experiences that make MTT a special place.

From 3:30 to 5:00 pm, teens share the session with MJT, My Junior Tribe, which brings a lively energy and helps create a sense of continuity. After spending time with their younger peers, from 5:00 to 6:30pm teens transition into an hour and a half just for themselves.

Breaking the Ice

Last time around, we kicked off the “Teens only” time with a fun and light-hearted icebreaker. The game was simple: everyone had to stand up or sit down based on whether they had experienced certain things before. This was not just a game, but a non-threatening way for teens to ease into the group and get comfortable. Even those who were hesitant at first soon found themselves laughing and joining the fun.

One of the highlights of the evening was our second game, where each person picked up a random number of counters. What they didn’t know was that for every counter they held, they would have to share a funny story about themselves. For some, it was nerve-wracking at first, but the supportive atmosphere quickly helped everyone feel at ease. 

One of our leaders took the plunge by sharing a hilarious personal story about losing a tooth in the middle of the night - newly married and mortified. Laughter filled the room, and soon enough, the teens began to open up. One shared how they once rolled out of bed during the night, and from there, the stories kept coming. What began as a game of funny anecdotes gradually transformed into a moment of deeper connection, as each teen felt seen and heard.

Connection through play

After our storytelling session, we moved into what we call "Freedom Time Zone", where everyone could choose from different activities. Some teens opted to play the Alphabet Game, a fun, fast-paced word game where you choose a letter and find words in categories like animals, jobs, or objects. Others chose to play Rummikub, a board game that encourages interaction with a clear set of rules, providing structure while still allowing for spontaneous conversation.

These games may seem simple, but by allowing our teens to share something in common, they facilitate connection. Play removes the pressure to "come up with something to say", paving the way for natural conversations to flow more easily.  

Breaking down barriers

Neurodiverse teens often face social isolation, and here at MTT, we aim to break down those barriers. We strive to create an accepting, low-pressure environment; a space to play, connect, and recharge. This gives teens the freedom to share their experiences, receive undivided attention from peers (rather than from family or carers), and feel visible – often for the first time. For many, this group feels like the friendships they’ve always wanted but never knew how to find. Whether through games, laughter, or just being there together, we’re building a community where neurodiverse teens can find their tribe, make connections, and feel at home.  

If you know a teenager who could benefit from this supportive, joyful environment, we’d love to see them at MTT. Contact us on [email protected]