I am an LSA working with neurodiverse children in a mainstream school. I get attacked by children, I also get loved by children. I get involved in restraint situations, I also get to laugh and play with children. It is the most wonderful job I have ever had.
But I'm struggling to cope with their distress. Today I was attacked by a child, because that was the only way she knew how to communicate her emotions. I'm not angry at her for hitting me and trying to bite me. I just want to cry for her, her distress, her struggles.
Every day this week children have been in meltdown. Every day this week, despite our efforts to support them. And when one child is roaring on the floor, the others become anxious. And I just want to hug them all and comfort them and I can't.
Half-term can't come soon enough. I need headspace.