I've worked in daycare for years, then switched to working privately with families. I decided to try working back in daycare, and had my first day today. I already want to quit.

The director didn't really ask much during the interview, didn't give me a tour, I could tell she was in a rush to hire as the centre was busy. I was eager coz it's walking distance from my home. But after today, I don't know if it's really worth it. My top-up doesn't come in effect until after probation. And she wasn't lying it was hella busy. There were times when a staff lost count of how many kids, or we'd have some kids hang out in our room that's "technically out of ratio" wtf that means. On top of that the staff didn't seem happy, none really talked to me unless I spoke to them, idk like I got a vibe they didn't want me there or they had zero f's to give. Most of the staff is also the same ethnicity as the director, and they're all speaking their language and I could tell they were talking about me (I notice their side glances). And the policies weren't even being followed at all, like it's just there to make the place look good for licensing and new hires. The director kept saying "we're a family we support each other" but I saw no hints of that at all. Idk I just have this feeling I'm gonna regret working there since I left after the interview.

I felt overwhelmed, and so underpaid that the work that I'm expected to do no way match the salary even with the top-up.

I just needed to vent. And maybe get advice from other educators.