My Thoughts for Today

Today I fell in love with an adorable little boy who has Autism. He reminded me of previous children that I have worked with in my 11 years as an EA. I still love my grade 7s, yes but seeing this innocent young child, with big brown eyes, instantly stole my heart. I spent the afternoon with him in his classroom, it felt very comfortable. During the afternoon I observed many Sensory difficulties and my mind automatically went into "teacher mode". I wanted to teach him things, and help him discover his world. But unfortunately this may have been the only time I will work with this child.

So over the last year I have struggled with what I want to do for the rest of my working life. Bouncing back and forth over a variety of options I realized today that, whatever I do, it will be with children. I can't help it, I love them. I love teaching them, helping them solve personal problems, seeing them reach their goals, their smiles, laughter,their tears, giving and receiving hugs. Working with children over the past 14 years has been amazing, such a learning experience. They have taught me more than I think I have taught them.

The end of every school year is bitter sweet to me, I am sad to see children move on, but happy to see what they have achieved. I have fond memories of past children who have touched my life, and wonder how they are, hoping that they are doing well. I have had the privilege of watching my group of grade 7s grow from preschoolers to junior high students. To see them grow and become young adults was amazing and I will be forever grateful. Schools are changing here, this will be their last year in elementary, next year they move on to high school. This will be a difficult transition for not only them but me. It may be time for me to move on, or maybe stay and start with a new group. Not sure which direction to take, but I know it will involve children some how, some way.