Mama Childcare

Our Teachers

Neelo Tohki

I am passionate about working with children and find joy in supporting their learning and development. I bring a warm, energetic presence to every day, making learning fun and engaging for little ones.

I have completed all California state-required training and hold current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Additionally, I have completed coursework in child nutrition to better support healthy growth and habits.

As a proud mother of three, I understand firsthand the importance of nurturing care and educational play. Before opening my own childcare program, I gained over a ten years of hands-on experience working with children.

My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and enriching environment where children can thrive.

Philosophy

I believe that young children learn best through play. In my program, play is not just fun—it’s an essential part of how children explore, grow, and understand the world around them. Through hands-on activities, songs, stories, and games, I help children build a strong foundation in early concepts like numbers, letters, colors, and shapes in a joyful and natural way.

I focus on supporting each child’s individual developmental milestones—socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually. Whether it’s learning to take turns, recognizing letters, or expressing their feelings, I meet children where they are and encourage their progress at their own pace.

Nutrition and healthy habits are also important in my program. I introduce children to a variety of fruits and vegetables and encourage them to try new foods in a positive, pressure-free environment. Mealtimes are opportunities to build independence and explore healthy choices.

Above all, I strive to create a warm, supportive, and engaging space where every child feels safe, valued, and excited to learn.

Location

Nestled in the peaceful East Garrison neighborhood of Marina, CA, our program offers a safe and welcoming environment for young learners. The area is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and a community that values education and respect.

For commuting families, our location provides convenient access to major highways. California State Route 1 (CA-1) is approximately 3 miles west and California State Route 156 (CA-156) is about 5 miles northeast, linking to U.S. Route 101.

Public transportation is readily available through Monterey–Salinas Transit (MST), which operates several bus routes throughout Marina. The nearest MST bus stop is approximately 2 miles from our location.

Our program’s location combines the tranquility of a close-knit community with the convenience of accessible transportation options, making it an ideal setting for families seeking quality childcare.

About our program

Located in Marina, Mama Childcare provides a warm, nurturing environment where young children can grow, explore, and thrive. Our program is designed to prepare children for school while fostering a sense of confidence, curiosity, and joy in learning.

We take a whole-child approach to early education, blending academics with creativity and movement. Children engage daily in enriching activities like music, art, and sports—supporting both cognitive development and physical well-being. Our caring and supportive atmosphere ensures that every child feels safe, valued, and inspired to reach their potential.

Admissions

1. Explore our website We’ve provided information about our philosophies and offerings to help you decide if our program may be right for your family.

2. Tour our program Come see what makes Mama Childcare unique. If we are currently hosting tours, you can request or schedule a tour at the top of this page. If we are not currently hosting tours, you’ll see a “Request Info” button at the top of this page; if you submit your information using this button, we will notify you when we start host tours again in the future.

3. Submit an Enrollment Application If you’re interested in enrolling, submit an application by selecting Apply to enroll. If this option if not available, you can message the program director. Please do not apply to enroll until you have set up a tour and visited the program.