Who we are
Popótamo was founded in Barcelona in 1999 with the dream of educating, supporting, and making children happy. We are an early childhood center, nursery, and psycho-pedagogical service that has become a benchmark in childcare and development. Our approach combines Montessori philosophy, active methodologies, and playful learning strategies, offering a safe, stimulating environment that respects each child’s individual pace. We believe in a holistic education that fosters autonomy, curiosity, and confidence in young children.
Nuestro equipo
Erika Mateo Lagos
Early Childhood Teacher (Special Needs Specialist)
Psychopedagogue
Psychomotor Therapist
Speech Therapist
Viviana Ponce Escudero
PhD in Literary Theory
Specialist in Abuse and Gender-Based Violence
Historical-literary communicator
Writer
Marisa Martín García
Psychologist
Specialist in Emotional Release Techniques and Third Generation Therapies
Psychosocial and spiritual care for people with advanced illness
A team that educates with heart and professionalism
Erika Mateo Lagos
Erika holds a degree in Education (UTA, Arica, Chile), is an Early Childhood Educator specialized in Special Educational Needs, a Psychopedagogue (University of Barcelona), and has further training in Educational System Management (UAB), Psychomotricity (Ramon Llull), School Speech Therapy, Gender Violence Prevention, and Neuropsychology.
Her journey—from Chilean classrooms to Catalonia—has been driven by a clear mission: to ensure every child reaches their full potential.
In 1999, she founded Popótamo, now located in Cornellà de Llobregat—a trilingual center with a primarily Montessori philosophy. At Popótamo, learning challenges become achievable goals. It is a center of excellence with over 25 years of transforming lives.
Viviana Ponce Escudero
Viviana holds a PhD in Literary Theory and Comparative Literature (UAB) and a Master’s in Abuse and Gender Violence (UNED).
Her current work focuses on the gendered and often harmful aspects of language, especially the violence it can generate.
Key projects include:
A Chilean radio project promoting reading and literature written by women, funded by the National Book Fund (2021). It compares literary texts with well-known songs interpreted by women.
A digital campaign celebrating World Book Day (April 23), inviting people worldwide to share and recommend their favorite books.
A public awareness initiative broadcast across Santiago’s metro network, encouraging reflection on sexist language and promoting more inclusive expression.
At Popótamo, Viviana contributes to language development and promotes equality in education.
Marisa Martín García
Marisa is a humanistic and integrative psychologist specializing in emotional support during life transitions.
She provides a safe space for adults to understand their emotions, reduce emotional overload, and strengthen personal resources.
Her qualifications include a Psychology degree (UOC) and training in EMDR, Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), person-centered therapy, and third-generation therapies.
She has worked with The Wellbeing Planet Foundation, providing psychological support during COVID-19, and holds a Master’s in Psychosocial and Spiritual Care for People with Advanced Illness.
She supports older adults, grief processes, end-of-life care, and families navigating parenting challenges, always with empathy, respect, and confidentiality.
At Popótamo, she offers optional psychological support to families, complementing the educational work and fostering a stable, supportive environment for children.
What do people say about Popótamo?
You will find us in Cornellà de Llobregat. Feel free to call, email, or visit us—we always welcome families with a smile.