"The children I'm working with often rely on me to verbally prompt them, or give them cues about how to be included in other children's play.
"They struggle with the close proximity of other children, and need me to help them cope.
"I've also worked with a child who had a tracheotomy.
"This involved me ensuring that the tracheotomy tube was suctioned regularly, and that the child did not get any sand or dust in it.
"I found this very nerve-racking, and a huge responsibility."
Power said people in her industry wanted to make a difference, but it was tiring, and they were often hit or bitten by children.
"This pay equity mediation case is really about respecting the work we do with children, and acknowledging and valuing the children we work with.
"There is a perception that because the work we do is nurturing, that we don't need to be paid a fair wage.
"This is wrong."
NZEI Te Riu Roa is a party to the mediation.
President Lynda Stuart said the women were not being paid what they were worth.
"We are really lucky to have people who really love their jobs, and do this because they know that they have the ability to make a difference.
"But it's time that they were paid exactly what they're worth.
Stuart said it took courage for the women to step forward for the mediation process.
"It is difficult, I saw it today. They were nervous.
"But they know they're doing it on behalf of others as well."
The mediation is still ongoing.
