Nine-year-old Jason was regarded as a sensitive child who found it difficult to join in at club. Everyone was delighted when he eventually made a best friend in Tom and became more cheerful and outgoing and seemed to be enjoying club.
But suddenly there was a problem. Jason decided he didn't want to go to club any more, explaining he didn't want to 'do badges'. This was a new activity where the children were given badges on completion of various tasks, such as learning to cook. His playworkers and parents were worried and disappointed. 'He seemed so much more confident, we thought he'd be delighted to try a new activity,' said his parents. They thought that Jason was 'afraid to try...he's afraid of failing in front of Tom'. His playworker agreed adding, 'Yes, Jason isn't at all like Jock who just has to win and can't be held back,' and she pursed her lips and frowned slightly.
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