Mariah Bankemper
​Captain of Creativity

Hi! I'm Mariah, the founder and director of The Philly Pad. Thank you for visiting. I created The Philly Pad in the summer of 2018 to be a place where kids could have fun and express themselves. I strive to show children how to be compassionate and empathetic friends, courageous explorers, and uninhibited dancers. I love introducing children to STEM concepts, leading experiments, teaching kids yoga, and most importantly talking about our "feelings." When I am not at The Philly Pad I am on my yoga mat, eating veggies or soaking up some sun. 

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Olivia Matinas
​First Mate of Freckles & Fun

Hi parents! My name is Olivia, and I am a proud team member of the Philly Pad. After having graduated with my bachelors in Early Childhood Education last year, I joined my friend Mariah at the Pad—and what a blast it has been! I absolutely love observing and encouraging the children’s social-emotional development, curiosity, imagination, and love of all things silly. I hope to always instill a love for reading and making connections, no matter how small. Besides turning the playground into a lunar landing site, I enjoy exploring the grocery store, taking ballet classes, and sipping a cappuccino from any number of Philadelphia cafes.

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Miss Brittany
World Traveler & Math Enthusiast

Hi! I’m Brittany and I am so excited to be joining the Philly Pad this summer! I am a math specialist at Bache-Martin during the school year and live in the neighborhood. I have been teaching for the past 6 years after graduating with my Master’s in Elementary Education from St. Joseph’s University.  I love working with children and letting them explore their own interests. I especially like incorporating math concepts into everyday fun!  When I’m not working with children, I love spending time with Ellie, my golden retriever puppy, running on Kelly Drive, and reading for my monthly book club.

Brittney will be joining the team 5 days a week for the summer of 2019. We are so so lucky to have her on-board! ​

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Miss Faatimah

Miss Faatimah might be better known as Captain PickleNickle - She is loads of fun and a great addition to our team! Pic & Bio coming soon!