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Nearly 12 years ago I left my administration job to go on maternity leave, with grand plans to have my child and return to work within a maximum of 6 months. Like a lot of mums I had no idea what being a mum involved and how overwhelmingly I would love my daughter and couldn’t possibly leave her in anyone else’s care. I also hadn’t factored in the lack of sleep, as my little darling was not a great sleeper and I was adding up all the snippets of sleep I got during the night to reach a total of about 4 and a half to 5 hours most nights! This lasted for nearly 2 years until I stopped breast feeding and we moved to our own house and she had a room of her own. My son was easier on me and slept well.

I have not been in paid work since then, but maintain I never knew what real work was until I became a mum. Now I feel it is time for me to return to paid work, but what to do? I can’t face office work again and I need to be around for the children after hours and during school holidays. My husband works long hours and is great support on the weekends, but I feel I need to keep the house going and cook dinners.

Unexpectedly I was given a chance to do some training at school, where I had worked in voluntary positions for some time and became a voluntary literacy assistant. Finally, the light bulb went on and I realised helping children was my very real and new passion in life. I enrolled in a Teachers Aide/Integration Aide course, went to all my classes, worked hard and graduated 2 weeks ago. I have already applied for 2 positions and plan to contact some more schools for casual work soon.

My husband and children have changed my life and my future in so many wonderful ways. I feel so very lucky for their support, and the encouragement and guidance they have given me, often without realising it.

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Posted by jayella, 9th April 2013