Caregivers

Milcah Gaskin

Milcah (pronounced Meeka) is an Oakland native with a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies and Studio Arts. She has spent over 20 years working with children in settings from corporate childcare centers to nannying for private families. She is a mother of 3 and an educator at heart. 

Not long after her twins were born, she realized she not only enjoyed caring for young children, but that creating a deep learning environment for their rapidly growing brains was a fascinating and rewarding endeavor. 

“I want all of the children to explore something new everyday, get their hands dirty, discover a new color combination, touch a new texture. We are open to every type of creativity!”

She feels that constantly continuing her base of knowledge related to children and education is the key to being an excellent caregiver and has attended trainings on many topics ranging from Neurodiversity to Restorative Justice to Positive Parenting practices. She is also certified in Pediatric CPR/First Aid and is a mandated reporter for the state. 

In her free time, Milcah enjoys reading, knitting, painting, ceramics, and spending time with her husband, kids and puppy.

Dhamar Torres Martinez

Dhamar has a natural way with children and is a comforting and supportive caregiver at all times. She loves trying new art projects and helping the children tackle challenges with their fine and gross motor skills. Dhamar grew up in Juarez, Mexico and has lived in Oakland since she was a young teenager.

Dhamar loves to do art and cooking projects with the children and encourages everyone to speak Spanish as much as possible.

Outside of The Willow Tree you can find Dhamar spending time with her son Eli, her husband and her extended family.