I have a rule in my class (after the "doughnut toy" incident last year) that children have to justify why their 'show & tell' is educational, special or interesting. Usually this weeds out the good, from the bad and the boring.

Today, one of my shy little ones asked to do a tell

"I'm making a cake with my Mummy for Children in Need," she said. This little one rarely asks for anything, and aware that English is her second language, I agreed.

At the end of the day I invite her to the front to share. She takes a big breath and I lean forwards ready to jump

in and help in if her nerves get the better of her.

"Ms A says we are all special", she says and my TA & I exchange a look not sure where this is going. "But in my country special is bad and we keep it a secret."

The children look confused. Mrs C & I look it too but we wait.

"Children in Need is about some children who are special," she continues. "I want to tell my news that my baby sister (born early September) has Downs Syndrome because in Pearl class everybody is welcome."

At hearing my tagline tears fill my eyes & there is a second of silence

before the class claps. Some make the link to E in our class with the same condition. Some cheer and shout "congratulations" and "that's great M."

My little one smiles at me and then suddenly remembering why she asked to do show & tell she adds "oh, and I'm making a cake too."

I've struggled with mental health this week & I'm not sleeping well. My year group partner is isolating & I've worked non-stop but still feel I'm just chasing my tail. This beautiful moment was just what I needed to remind me of why I do it and that I'm doing an okay job too.