Right now I'm getting myself back into work after a few years. Right now I'm a substitue teacher. Mostly for kids between the age 6 and 10. It includes work in the school hours but you wouldn't see us as the traditional teachers. It's more directed to emotional development, art and outside activity. We also look after the kids and arranging activities between 6 am to 6 pm (or longer if needed) and weekdays when the school is closed.
All in all, the easiest way to describe it may be to say it's like preschool teacher but working in school. 😛
It can be tough since money is always an issue and you don't get the resources you need and by some it can be looked down on since we're not "real" teachers but I love this job. Nothing else I want to do. The joy and the ability to try and shape the future generation while they're a little easier to shape. Into individuals with respect for each other, not in the "everyone should be the same robots" way that some people (teachers and others) seem to think the school is about.
The down side besides those due to lack of money when you're a guy is that not everyone wants you to be close to the kids. Hugging, sitting in the lap or any chance of touching them can be a very touchy subject. I've experienced both extremes. From being told to have no physical contact what so ever to "why should there be any difference?" When pedophile cases blow up in the media you're bound to get some looks. But the more parents know you the less you get.
