MumAbroad

Cupcakes party workshop for kids

Recommended by Chantal Fraser

Helen Scott runs Tickety Boo, which as well as offering a range of delicious things to eat, can organize fantastic cupcake workshops for your child`s birthday. Lasts around 2 hours and is very well priced. She can also make the birthday cake and bring a piñata!
00 ]34 628604313
ticketyboo6n2@gmail.com

Rachel Duval - voice coach

Recommended by Rachele Carboni

Rachel is a voice teacher and voice coach in Barcelona. She is a certified K-12 music teacher from the University of Washington in Seattle and was an elementary school music teacher both in the USA and in Barcelona before pursuing her career as a full time opera singer and voice coach. She works with students from age 8 and beyond in English and Castellano, but prefers working in English. She has coached students into programs such as Berkelee College of Music and the American Musical Theatre Acadamy of London and sings here in Barcelona herself. She would be delighted to work with you or your child out of her studio in Sarria (3 blocks from the Sarria FCG) and her rates are competitive. Happy singing!
rachelrduval@gmail.com
Phone: +34664062976
Website:www.rachelduval.webs.com

Comments:
"Rachel is an incredible teacher and is very passionate and commited to what she does. She is extremely talented: she plays the piano and the guitar and her voice is unique. Whenever I have a lesson with Rachel, she is able to improve my tecnique in my singing in a massive way, in only one hour. She not only tells me how to improve but also tells me why these things will help and why they will change my singing and help me improve. She does this through showing examples and making me understand how my body is working and why. I would recommend Rachel as a teacher to anyone who wants to see drastic changes in their ability level and feel more confident about themselves. You'll never find someone as great as her!" (RC, Jan 2013)

“Rachel is very positive and stimulates students to believe in themselves, also when things don’t work out immediately. She combines excellent technical skills with a lot of experience in working with children and adolescents. My daughter really feels inspired by her and loves to go to her singing class every week.”  (S.H., mom of 11-year-old student)
 

Clincas Den - children's dentist and orthodontist, Barcelona

Recommended by Lara Pennington

Child-friendly dentist offering regular check-ups as well as orthodontic work - located just off Avenida Diagonal
Vía Augusta 28 30. 08006 Barcelona
Teléfono 93 218 80 80
info@clinicasden.com

www.odontologiaparabebes.com
www.clinicasden.es

Comments:
"I took my 4 year old to his first dentist appointment and we had a really positive experience.  The female dentist and her assistant were very child friendly (he loved their Sponge Bob uniforms) & Disney channel on the TV above his head kept him distracted. They checked, cleaned and "painted" his teeth with Fluoride all for a VERY reasonable price ! We will definitely return" (LP, Sep 2012)
 

BACKPACK BABY - Baby Equipment Rental Barcelona

Recommended by Norma Scevoli

BACKPACK BABY rents baby travel gear, travel cots, cribs, strollers, pushchairs, car seats, etc. You can also buy food and diapers and basic childcare products that they deliver together with your order to your hotel / apartment.
Av. Madrid 191 entlo 2ª, esc B, 08014 Barcelona (+34) 934927929 (+34) 615077087 www.backpackbaby.com

Comments
"We went to Barcelona last Christmas and rent a stroller and a travel cot for our youngest from Backpack Baby. The items were delivered on time and just where we requested, in just "like new" condition. Laura was very friendly and she helped us solving all our questions and showing us family-friendly places for going with children. I would recommend Backpack Baby to any parents travelling with young kids!" (NS April 2013)

24 Hour Pharmacy

Recommended by Jarmina

Farmacia Torres is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
Calle Aribau 62, 934539220 www.farmaciaabierta24h.com

Comments: 
"A complete lifesaver!!!!!! You can even park for free on Calle Arago 208" (CD)

Actividad AuPair Internacional

Recommended by Cristina Hernandez

Au pair agency based in Barcelona. Minimum timescale 6 months or 2-3 months in the summer.
Paseo de Gracia Nº 78 Atic 2ª 08008 Telef. 932154895Barcelona www.aupairinternacional.com E.mail. bcn@aupairinternacional.com E.mail. bcnaupair@ya.com
 

Comments: 
" I'm using Au pair International services since my oldest son was born  in 1998. During all this time I haven't had any problem. All the aupairs that have passed in my house, have been nice persons. When there were any little incidents, Au Pair International has solved them" (CH, Sep 09) 

Au Pair Rescue, Barcelona

Recommended by Adonaya Ayala

Au Pair Rescue works with various European agencies with whom they exchange family and Au-pair applications. Each and every one of the applications they deal with is submitted to a strict selection procedure that includes:
Application form questionnaire
Photos of the au-pair and her family
At least two childcare references
Medical certificate
Interview
Signed agreement
Au Pair Rescue also receives Au-pair applications directly through contacts in Spain and other countries, and they are considered and evaluated under the same strict procedure.
Au Pair Agency
Barcelona 34 626 990 765
Jerez (Cádiz) 34 646 941 443
info@aupairescue.com
www.aupairescue.com

Comments:
"My experience with Au Pair Rescue is very positive. I contacted them at a time when I was really desperate for help. I needed to reorganize my family life and that meant finding someone to help us with the children.I called asking for information and advice and they gave me a solution, resolving at once all my doubts and uncertainties about the experience of introducing a “stranger” in my home: Would it be uncomfortable? Would the children accept her? Would they learn the language?When Patrizia arrived she was also full of questions and a bit nervous. It was the first time she left home to be an au-pair, but we took her in as another member of our family and up until today, living together, and her relationship with the children has been wonderful. My children have learnt to respect her while learning another language and she feels totally integrated in our home.Since Patrizia’s arrival, Au Pair Rescue has been concerned about how we all adapted and got on together. They have called both of us to make sure there were no problems and resolving all of our doubts; always available and willing to help. With no doubt I will repeat the experience and I am grateful to Au Pair RescueE for making our lives easier, nicer and more interesting. It is great to hear my children sing German songs! And they love to feel different and special learning another language as they play games and have fun" (AA, November 2011)

 

Au pair world

Recommended by Ingeborg van Bavel

Online worldwide search agency for au pairs 
49 5603917817 support@aupairworld.net www.aupairworld.net

Comments: 
"I have great experience with the site and the au pairs we had so far. It is very easy to sign in and receive messages from serious girls or boys. You can write your requests in your profile so there often is already a kind of match." (IVB, May 08)
 

Baby Massage - AEMI

Recommended by Lou Melotte

AEMI is the association for baby massage in Spain and offers various courses throughout the year.  
Calle Santa Ursula, 8, 934204667 aemi@telefonica.net, www.masajeinfantilaemi.org 

Babytravelling, Barcelona

Recommended by Rebecca Lovell

Babytravelling rents all kinds of baby and kids products from puschairs & cots to carseats, toys, sterilisers and highchairs. They also have beach equipment. You can rent for days or weeks. They deliver and collect and the products are always in excellent condition. Also based in Valencia, Madrid, the Balearics and the South of Spain. Speak English, Spanish, Catalan, German & French.
Tel: (+34) 670 73 18 35
reservas@babytravelling.com
www.babytravelling.com

**MumAbroad members get 10% discount on all rentals. Please quote MumAbroad in all correspondence**

Comments:
" It is ideal if, like me, you often have family and friends coming to Spain on a visit with their little ones and don’t want to lug travel cots, strollers, high chairs, car seats etc over with them. You can even rent toys and bottle warmers for your stay. You just have to look at what is available on the website and ask to have it delivered to your address in Barcelona, Valencia or Madrid on the day of your choice. Such a handy service if you want to travel as light as possible with your children!" (RL, Jan 2012)

Barcelona Asistencial

Recommended by Tamara Weil

Reasonably priced night nurse agency offering to care for your baby at night and give general advice on looking after a newborn.
Calle Sant Gervasi de Cassoles 95 934172728 contacto@barcelonaasistencial.es www.barcelona-asistencial.es

Barcelona Libraries

Recommended by BCN Tots

Most local libraries have excellent children´s sections. Books are well thumbed so don´t always to find the book totally intact! Free to join (and you don´t need a photo). You can borrow books, magazines, CDs and DVDs including the popular series 'Baby Einstein'.
For your nearest library go to www.bcn.cat/biblioteques

Comments:
You can also usually get up to half an hour free internet access and libraries are a great source of information for local children´s events

Barcelona Nutritionist and Dietitian

Recommended by Alexandra Cortina de Charlier

Andreina White is a Nutritionist and Dietitian
(+34) 608909058 info.nutriwhite@gmail.com

Comments
"My daughter and my son are both allergic to quite a lot of foods and we discovered this through some of her testing and her advice. In fact, at about 18 months my daughter was slipping into the world of autism. We started her on a very specific diet for getting her intestinal track to heal and she is doing extremely well now. She no longer has an extended belly and she is a much happier and smiley child. My son, also to a lesser extent ended up having an intolerance to milk and gluten (wheat) and when we took him off this he started to sleep better and his tonsils were no longer enlarged. As for myself she has been working on some intolerances and helping to get my energy back up. I believe she is also working with pregnant mothers - which I think is a great bonus to the mother and baby. I highly recommend her - she is very knowledgeable and thorough." (A CdC, March 2011)

The British Dental Clinic, Barcelona

Recommended by Christine Wintersteller

English-speaking dentists for both children's and adult needs including check-ups, orthodontics and teeth whitening.
The British Dental Clinic
Avda. Diagonal 281
Tel 932 658 070
www.thebritishdentalclinic.com

Comments:
"Thank you for the recent treatment of Simon, Hannah and Julia. Hannah is beaming with her clean teeth following your session.
It was such a pleasure to meet your staff who were so friendly and smiley! It was good to get the advice on how to motivate Simon and keep his teeth clean, let's hope it works. Once again a big thanks for the reassurance and friendly care" (CW, November 2011)

Cathy Loughran - Photographer

Recommended by clare doane

Cathy has been a photo-journalist for 20 years and has been published in newspapers and magazines all around the world. She is now bringing her documentary photography skills to photographing children and weddings in a very natural way. Cathy is available to photograph families in a chosen location eg beach, park or garden. She is based in Barcelona.
www.childrenbycathy.com and www.weddingbycathy.com 

Comments:
"I can recommend Cathy Loughran extremely highly as a photographer. She has taken beautiful photos of my boys, and has worked as a photographer at approximately 20 weddings I have organised. She is extremely talented, and lovely. Cannot recommended highly enough." (CD, March 08)

Click here to read an interview with Cathy

Child Psychologist - Sarah Degens (Bcn)

Sarah graduated in clinical psychology in her native Belgium and now specializes in child pyschology in Barcelona, especially with those children who use more than one language in their daily lives. Sarah can help all children with learning difficulties and adaptation socially and emotionally. She can work in English, Spanish, German, French and Dutch. She is based at the Centre Rocafort which specializes in promoting health and wellbeing.

sdegens@centrerocafort.com
teléfono: +34 622 466 131
http://www.centrerocafort.com/

C/Sant Doménec, 2-4, 3-1
08012 Barcelona
+34622466131
+32474414160(Belga)
sarah.degens@hotmail.com

Comments:
"Debido a que Sarah colabora en Centre Rocafort desde hace poco tiempo aún no hablar de sus competencias como terapeuta en relación a sus clientes. No obstante, su aportación terapéutica en las sesiones clínicas que realizamos semanalmente es totalmente adecuada y valorada por el resto de los miembros del equipo. Desde el inicio, Sarah además siempre ha hecho aportaciones en las sesiones de una manera muy honesta y constructiva, no tiene miedo a hacer preguntas, ni hacer los comentarios que cree oportunos.
Respeto a la organización del centro, Sarah aporta ideas que ayudan a optimizar la promoción y organización del centro y de sus servicios. También acepta las ideas y contribuciones de sus compañeros. Con todo esto, en poco tiempo Sarah se ha adaptado muy bien al trabajo en nuestro equipo y espero poder contar con ella mucho tiempo" (SD, June 2011)
 

Children´s dentist

Recommended by BCN Tots

English-speaking children´s (and adult´s) dentist in Diagonal Mar
Dental Clinic Vilallonga, Calle Calvet, 15 pral. 1ª - 932096121 www.clinicavilallonga.com/clinicadental/eng/home.htm

Children's Entertainment - CircaCirc

Recommended by Jennifer Breen

Cerca Circ are based in Catalunya and offer exciting circus skills workshops and family/ childrens entertainment for all types of events and for all ages. They work with schools, town events and children´s parties and offer such exciting activities as juggling, diabolo, parachute games, balancing objects, plate spinning and gigantic bubbles.
Shows can include  juggling, comedy, music and even fire juggling. They also offer stiltwalkers, balloon modelling and unicyclists. They are tri lingual, having worked as Bezerkaz Circus in the UK and Shaun also offers English through juggling sessions as a special treat for students at English Accademies and Schools.
Tel 697534581  www.cercacirc.com

Comments:
"We had a fantastic evening, the girls really enjoyed all the different circus skills and were disappointed when we had to stop. (The leaders thoroughly enjoyed themselves as well!!). Ralph was great - hit just the right note" (JB, Jan 08)

Children's Entertainment - Ruskus Patruskus

Clown services with educational elements such as recylciing and other environmental issues. He also can do school assembly shows as well as familiar performances for birthday parties and so on. The prizes depend upon the kind of the show and travel expenses, but they are always affordable. You can reach my website at www.ruskus-patruskus.com
Leo Kálnay RUSKUS PATRUSKUS T. 651 310 255 info@ruskus-patruskus.com, www.ruskus-patruskus.com
www.youtube.com/watch?gl=ES&hl=es&v=ASpz-aCmj88

Comments:

"Traspatràs, by Ruskus Patruskus, is much more than just entertainment for kids and adults. It is a nfunny show with touches of magic and illusionism, and educational at the same time. All gags are done thinking in how to communicate, with practical and daily-life examples, the basic rules or road
safety. With the spontaneous help of children, he shows the importance of helmets when riding a bicycle, respect the traffic signs and traffic lights, why we should walk always on the pavement, etc. It is an educational show very appropriate to celebrate the ending of a road safety course, like we
have just done in Tordera with children from schools of different age groups. The contents of the course (that have been worked previously in the classroom) are worked by clown Ruskus Patruskus
in such a way boys and girls are aware of the importance of keep the rules that police instructors told them in a much serious way. Magic and affection, that a clown always arouse in children, are used to ensure the understanding of theses advices on accidents prevention. Tordera City Council recommends this show to celebrate the finish of a road safety course, as well
as for any other occasion where a play-oriented act is going to be done" (Tordera City Council, 2007)

"Mr Leo Kálnay, We are grateful to you by your collaboration in the Cultural Week we celebrated in our school, and
that was dedicated to Road Safety. I take advantage of the occasion to emphasize the educational value of your show TRASPATRÀS
that, besides road safety, deals with other important subjects like recycling."
(The Head Teacher, Generalitat de Catalunya, Department of Education, Sant Iscle State School,Vidreres, 2008)

Children´s Naturopath y Nutritionist in Barcelona

Recommended by Uby Munoz

Dorte Froreich is a German naturopath y nutritionist working in Barcelona working with both the Barcelona Well Woman Clinic and also Marenostrum. Dorte offers health workshops for pregnancy, babies, children and families.
info@saludalplato.com www.saludalplato.com

Comments
"I am honoured and proud to have nutritionist and naturopath Dorte Froreich as part of the therapist team at the Barcelona Well Woman Clinic. Her broad range of knowledge in nutrition and health is invaluable. Dorte has a knack for motivating patients, aducating them, following up with them and getting great results. She is especially skilled with families. I refer a high volume of patients to her and she is able to motivate them and make a crucial improvements that prolong their well-being and their lives. Her family nutrition talks are very popular as she breaks complex material down, making it accessible and easy to understand." (UM Mar 2011)
 

Dentist - Dr Nicholas Jones

Recommended by Rebecca Laidlaw

Dr Nicholas Jones is a fully qualified Dentist in Sitges and Barcelona
607332335

Comments:
"Nick is based mainly in Barcelona but comes to Sitges once a week. He is fantastic - very personable and great advice - phoned him yesterday about my one year old boy who had chipped his teeth in a fall and he gave practical advice over the phone - would highly recommend him " (RL, Nov 07)

EasyTravelKids, Barcelona

Recommended by Nicola Millership

Easytravelkids.com offers  the opportunity of renting all the material necessary for your baby´s day by day: prams, baby cots, high chairs, car seats, food accessories whilst in Barcelona. Also can provide all the necessary paraphanalia needed when your baby has been born and for the following few months. Deliver to homes, villas and apartments:
 Tel. (+34) 648 470 591 | E-mail: info@easytavelkids.com  Web www.easytravelkids.com

Comments:
"We work with Tamara to offer baby accessories to our clients who stay in our apartments in Barcelona. Whenever we receive a request from one of our guests Tamara is quick to respond. She is very friendly and efficient.  We would recommend her services to anyone who needs to rent baby accessories in Barcelona" (NM Habitat Apartments, July 2011)

Educa-System, Barcelona

Educa- System is a pioneer in Spain in the field of home tutoring. Created in January 2003,  it specializes in home-school support, with a presence in all the major cities of Spain.
The company, headed up by Sebastian Trivière-Casanovas, currently manages more than 7,500 hours of tuition each month, and has more than 3,500 certified carefully selected teachers.
Educa-system has earned the ESADE business creation award and Hi Family Award for Best Educational Product. It offers tutors for all languages including Russian, Arabic, German as well as Catalan and Spanish for foreigners.
Tel 902 501 123
www.educa-system.com
 

Comments:
"Tenemos una hija de 8 años que siempre ha presentado serias dificultades para ir al ritmo de aprendizaje del resto de sus compañeros porque le cuesta concentrarse, mi marido y yo estábamos muy preocupados ante la situación y el psicólogo del colegio nos recomendó un profesor particular. Después de llamar a varias empresas decidimos depositar nuestra confianza en Educa-system porque enseguida entendieron nuestra preocupación y la necesidad de un profesor con las habilidades necesarias para ayudar a Laura. Ahora nuestra hija se muestra contenta y motivada porque aprende como sus compañeros y para nosotros es muy cómodo porque el profesor viene a casa y no tenemos que desplazarnos" (Elena C. y Nacho G, Parents of 8 year old)

English en Casa Bcn

Recommended by Juan Bonilla

Offers english nannies, private classes and babysitting.
For more information please contact Elysha, at english.en.casa.bcn@gmail.com or 651 428 798.

English babysitter/nanny

Recommended by Yasmina Old

Sarah Skilton 934 427259

Comments:
"She is my brother´s partner and babysits for English families in Barcelona and has babysat my children many a time - she is adored by them all" (YO, Dec 07)

English speaking Paediatrician, Barcelona

Recommended by Elena

Dr. Cristophe Allard, French pediatrician. Also speaks spanish and english.
He has a private practice, but if you have a health insurance with "libre eleccion" option, you can be reinbursed.
Calle Aribau, 18 - 2° 1a - 08011 Barcelona
Tél : 93 301.11.53 - Tél mobile : 606.57.56.56

Comments:
"He is beyond great, very pragmatic and thorough. My son also had some serious health problems when he was a newborn and the CAP doctor (in Manso), hadn't detected anything. That´s when I switched doctor and always gone there since. I have recommended him to other mums and they have all been very happy with him too" (Elena Luchi, April 2012)

English Speaking Paediatrician - Maria Dolores Terradas

Recommended by Amy Lanham

Highly recommended English-speaking paediatrician with office located 20 minutes off south end of Diagonal 
Via Internacional 1, Fontpineda (Pallejà). 651 747 664

Comments: 
"I have moved around a lot, and she is definitely the best pediatrican I have even had - tremendously helpful, personable and very accessible. She even makes house calls"(AL)

English/German/Spanish speaking Paediatrician

Recommended by Julie Haselmayer

Dr.Thorsten Faust, Pediatrician, Teknon Hospital, speaks English, German & Spanish. Comes recommended by many.
Teknon Hospital, Consultorios Vilana –Desp.129, Vilana 12, 933933129 www.pediatrafaust.com.
 

Face painting - Monica Pineros, Barcelona

Recommended by Carrie Frais

All types of face painting for children´s parties with an emphasis on fantasy.
Tel 667916859/932108016
monasunx@hotmail.com


Comments:
"We had a Pirates & Princess party and Monica provided the face-painting for the kids. She was absolutely brilliant! The kids loved her, and they all looked amazing" (CF, April 2011)
 

Family & Pets photographer

Recommended by Britta Kaehler

Photograhper based in Barcelona who specializes in images of children and animals. www. catt-art.com


Comments:
"she made some of nayan, really nice as a present for grandparent!" (BK, Jan 08)

Fien - The BCN Babysitter

Looking for a great babysitter? Someone with an obvious love of children and lots of experience? Fien is the person you are looking for! She is a 24 year-old girl from Antwerp, Belgium. After finishing her masters in clinical psychology she decided to live in Barcelona. Currently, she's working part-time in a psychotherapy center and in her free time she's babysitting. Also, she's quite the linguist, speaking Dutch, English, Spanish and French!
Highly recommended English-speaking babysitter operating in Barcelona
Tel 622 511 675 (mobile)
thebcnbabysitter@gmail.com
www.bcnbabysitter.com


Comments:
"Fien is a great babysitter/nanny! She's completely trustworthy, very responsible, loads of fun, and takes a real interest in the kids she looks after. My little boy absolutely adores her!" (Kate, Aug 2011)

German & English dentist for children

Recommended by Tine Schulz

Highly recommended centrally located dentist practice. Monday to Friday 10am-8pm
Dental Clinic Center, Paseo de Gracia 8-10, 2º 2ª, 934121695 www.DentalClinicCenter.com   
 

Getting around Barcelona by Bus

Recommended by BCN Tots

Getting around the city by bus if far more preferable than the metro, given the paucity of lifts at the stations. Most buses have a special area to park your buggy and passengers are normally very helpful giving you a hand getting on and off.
 www.tmb.net/en_US/home.jsp (in English)

Hairdressers

Recommended by Cliodhna Egan

Hairdresser suitable for all the family in the Eroski shopping complex off the N11

Comments:
"I just brought my toddler for her first haircut and was very impressed with the hairdresser. It is in the small shopping centre which houses Eroski in El Masnou ( there is only 1 hairdresser there) and she has a highchair, played a film and had sweets if required. She was also very fast. It cost €10.!" (CE, Dec 09)

Health Insurance - AME

Recommended by Lara Pennington

Excellent value Barcelona-based health insurance company for all the family. You need to have been a member for 6 months before you can get cover for pregnancy and birth. All scans and appointments are covered as is the birth, including Caesarians.
Calle Valencia 106-8 Baixos, 932265966 ame@ameasistencia.com  . 

Home hairdressers

Recommended by Carrie Frais

If you cannot find the time or haven´t got the inclination to get the children to the hairdressers, Lisa Ind will make life a lot easier for you by visiting your home. Professionally trained at Trevor Sorbie in London, her rates are reasonable and she´ll also cut Mum and Dad´s hair whilst she´s at it.

692027888  lisaind@hotmail.com (Lisa P Ind)

Homeopath - Rosa Mas Prunés

Recommended by clare doane

Based in Barcelona & Montseny Rosa Mas Prunés comes highly recommended. Her practice also has a collection of pratictioners specialising in lots of things like accupunture 
Calle Dr santponç 80 bxos, Barcelona 08030 - 93 346 8201
or Germana Assumpta 1, 1r , Arbucies (Monteny)17401 - 972 860779 93www.centrenaturisaintegral.com

Comments: 
"Personally I have not had much luck with the CAP health system. It seems every time your child is sick, they prescribe antibiotics, nevermind if the problem is infact a virus....and in my opinion antibiotics should be a last result for children, as they can really damage their natural immune system. However,  I have recently had both my children visit a homeopath (Rosa Mas Prunés).  She is very reasonably priced, and works miracles. Luc my oldest was hospitilised last year with chronic stomach pains, and traditional medicine/scans etc was drawing blanks. A friend recommended Rosa (as she cured her sons Asthma)  who just looked in his eyes (Iriolodgy) & cured him with homepathic medicine. Amazing - he is a different child, and he loves going to the doctors (no horrible examinations/injections), and is more than happy to take the medicine.  He has even refused chocolate on several occassions, as this helps him too!  My other son Nico, had really horrible & dry itchy skin on his stomach & back. So I took him to see her, and without knowing what was wrong, she looked in his eyes...and described the problem, and his character etc perfectly. She described him homeopathic medicine, which he loves taking - just like his brother, and there has been a huge improvement in his skin over the last week. Seeing the improvement our kids have shown, has made even my husband -  a natural medicine cynic, become a convert" (CD, Jan 08)
 

Inter aupair, Barcelona

Recommended by Nuria Verdu Soler

Inter Aupair is an Au Pair agency that processes Au Pair placements in Spanish families and applications of Spanish Au Pairs who want to travel abroad. It is owned and managed by  Silvia Guse and Alexandra de Alaminos, who have a broad international experience, have worked as Au Pairs in the past and welcomed Au Pairs in their homes. They speak English, French and German, and are used to living in a multi-cultural environment.
C TRADE CENTER
Av. de les Corts Catalanes, 5-7
08173 Sant Cugat del Vallès
Barcelona
Tel.: (+34) 608 51 44 00
Email: info@interaupair.com
www.interaupair.com

Comments:
"I have had five aupairs at home since we started being a host family three years ago. I’ve worked with two other agencies before meeting Inter aupair until I contact with Silvia. It has been really great to meet her because we appreciate the direct relationship between us and the agency, how she understands our requirements (four kids!) and how she tries to solve asap the problems when they appear . She is very kind with us and follows the development of the aupair and the relationship with the family, especially when the aupair just arrived.
I strongly recommend Inter Aupair as an aupair agency" (NVS, June 2011)

La Leche League

Recommended by Zoe Koumbouzi

Spanish/Catalan breastfeeding arm of this established support group in Barcelona. Advice and encouragement given on all aspects of breastfeeding and also a good way to meet other mums in similar situations. See baby & toddler section for English-speaking group on Monday afternoon.
To speak to a qualified advisor go to www.laligadelaleche.es/grupos_de_apoyo/index.htm
 

Marta Corominas - Doula & Bach flower specialist

Recommended by Carrie Frais

Doula and Bach flower therapist specializing in treating mums and children. Using natural and hand-made cosmetic products, the company also makes eco-friendly products.
Contact Marta Corominas 933172175 and 635514947
 

Nina Onsrud - Childhood Allergy Expert

Recommended by Ally Jones

Nina Onsrud offers treatments for childhood allergies. Nina is a member of NAET which offers a non-invasive, drug free, natural solution to eliminate allergies of all types and intensities using a blend of selective energy balancing, testing and treatment procedures from acupuncture/acupressure, allopathy, chiropractics, nutrition, and kinesiology
(+34) 650053370 allergyfreees@hotmail.com

Comments:
"We are now 6 months into William´s treatment and I can honestly say it has been mind blowing. For the first time in William´s life he goes to the toilet properly producing perfect stools. He was intolerant to almost everything so after many treatments his body could now break down and utilise all food groups inc. protein, vitamins A, B, C, sugars, iron, minerals, salts, cereals, yeast etc. Sticking to the programme Nina advised was easy as we are used to avoiding certain foods and used to reading every label. The beauty of this treatment is that you only stick to a strict diet for 25 hours after each treatment which made the whole process relatively easy. Now we are slowly introducing soya and other foods to William with no reaction. My 7 year old daughter has also been seeing Nina for her excema. It is very common that excema sufferers are allergic to vitamin A and protein. We have been very impressed with the progress so far with her also. I have learnt so much from this type of treatment with Nina and our lives are so much easier, healthier and safer. Thank you Nina for all she has done for us and I can´t recommend her highly enough!" (AJ), Nov 07)

Click here to read an interview with Nina

Paula Dietz Rauber - Photographer

Recommended by Rebecca Laidlaw

Paula Dietz Rauber is based in Sant Cugat and is a photographer specialising in pregnant women, babies, children and families. Paula works on location and only with natural light. Clients can choose where they would like the photographs taken: at home, in a park or on the beach. Spontaneity plays a big role in Paula’s work and she places great emphasis on capturing natural, fresh images that truly reflect her subject’s personality.
(+34) 636495456 www.dietzrauber.com

Comments:
"We were thrilled with the photos of our family taken by Paula.  It rained on the day of our session so I was sure that we would not get any good photos since we had planned to be outdoors. But, because of Paula's ability to improvise and her keen eye for light and backdrops, the photographs came out beautifully.  We were amazed!" (RL, May 07)

Party Time - Bouncy Castles for Hire

Recommended by Rebecca Laidlaw

Barcelona Bounce, owned by Amanda Duval, offer a variety of bouncy castles for hire for birthdays and special occasions
606308711 enquiries@barcelonabounce.com www.barcelonabounce.com

Comments:
Great fun at birthday parties. A selection of bouncy castles, including large slides and castles. Negates the need for Mum and Dad to run around entertaining 15 little ones! Children will entertain themselves for hours on these novelty bouncy castles and tire themselves out in the process. Barcelona Bounce deliver, set up and remove the bouncy castles all in one day. They do charge delivery if over 25km from them (Vilasar de Dalt, Maresme)

Paediatrician Mª Dolores Terradas, MD

Recommended by Susana

Mª Dolores is a pediatrician fluent in English. Born in Barcelona she graduated from medical school and finished her Pediatric Residency here, then did a 2 years fellowship in Houston (USA) and a 1 year fellowship in Sydney (Australia). The office is located just outside the South end of Barcelona, at a short 20 min drive, and just about the same distance from Sant Cugat and from Castelldefels. 
Consultorio Médico Fontpineda, Via Internacional 1, Pallejà 651747664

Comments:
Mª Dolores can empathize with the problems of mums in a foreign country as her son was born in Australia and her daughter, although born in Barcelona, lived abroad until the age of 3. The office is a beautiful place in the middle of nature, there is plenty of free parking space and patients should not expect crowded waiting rooms or long waiting lists, as it is a recently opened office. She also does some home calls.

Click here to read an interview with Mª Dolores Terradas

Pharmacies

Recommended by BCN Tots

Need something urgently for your baby?
To find out where your nearest pharmacy is and the opening hours www.farmaciesdeguardia.com

Photographer Sue Wetjen, Barcelona & Maresme

Recommended by Rebecca Lovell

Sue is a photographer that specialises in photography of babies, small children, families and pregnant women. She has use of a studio and can also take photos wherever you wish (playground, beach etc)
She speaks German, English, Spanish, Portuguese and some French.

Comments:
"What I like most about Sue’s service (apart from the beautiful photos), is the fact that she is willing to come to your home for the photo session. It’s so much more comfortable having your picture taken in the privacy of your own home and a much better way of capturing natural shots of children playing and relaxed" (SW, Jan 2012)
sururu@gmx.net
+34 679.757.587
www.suewetjen.com
www.suewetjen.blogspot.com

Photographer - Ima Garmendia

Recommended by Lou Melotte

Barcelona-based photographer who specializes in children's and portrait photographer. Ima is also a photojournalist +34-653927335 imagarmendia@hotmail.com www.imagarmendia.es

Comments:
"I found walking into imas home and studio such a welcoming experience. She immediatley put me at ease (when i was naked and pregnant!!) and with my family. she has a reassuring energy and fun manner. we had such a great day playing around between natural poses and some fun shots like all of us jumping up into the air, then all lying casually on her hammock, we wanted some shots we could send to the grandparents and some we liked for ourselves which made us look totally natural as if we were lounging at home. She has quite a unique style having been from a more photo journalistic background, we cerytainly didnt want your typical 'boots portrait' shots! and she is good at directing you what she thinks will work well, with your own wishes and your own unique style being represented. afterwards we were so happy to go through the shots on her laptop and then she touched everything up and gave us different takes on each image like one in black n white and one in colour!" (LM, Aug 07)

Piano lessons for children, Barcelona

All levels are welcome to private piano lessons available in Vila Olimpica Studio or at student's house. Lessons are given by a teacher who has more than 15 years of teaching experience. Lessons are available in English, Japanese,Castellano and Catalán.
I always make sure that students finish their lessons with big smiles on their face!
More information about the lessons, please visit http://barcelonapiano.blog.com/
Feel free to contact:
Tel: 673.364.002
Email: clasedepiano123@yahoo.es

Comments:
"Yukiko has a winning personality and a unique dedication to duty. In a short period of time she endeared herself to the students and quickly became a favorite among them. Her teaching style allowed students to extend themselves and rise beyond their expectations. Many of her former students have continued to pursue piano and have credited her with heir love for music" ( Director of After School Program at Bethony School in New York, U.S.)

Post birth programme

Recommended by Lou Melotte

Post birth programme which offers support to new mothers
Zoe Prendergast. BA Hons, M.Phil, Dip.Ac, CHBE (+34) 933197414 (+34) 654986735 zoeprendergast@gmail.com ONA, Calle Vallfogona,40, bajos. Gracia. 08012.

Comments
This post birth programme for new mothers offers support in recovering from birth by building blood and body fluids. In 4 weekly treatments the programme aims to increase milk production and resolve any breast feeding problems. It also aims to accelerate the healing of ceasarian scars and episiotomies, as well as discuss all the thoughts and feelings regarding your role as a mother.

Positive Parenting Plus

Recommended by Marjolijn Mac Conuladh

Positive Parenting Plus! is a multidisciplinary team of developmental and mental health specialists for children. They offer assessment, therapy, parent consultation, monthly parenting groups on specific topics, and continuing education for professionals. Each of these areas are discussed at their website www.positiveparentingplus.net
Bonanova Institut Mèdic, Pg. Bonanova, 61, Planta 2, Porta 1, Barcelona 08017 (+34) 932 530 848

Comments:
"Our 9 year-old son started going to Dr. Jill Jenkins a year ago. Prior to that our entire family were facing major daily challenges, pressure and stress given his hyper activity. After starting therapy with Dr. Jill we immediately started to see huge positive differences and in the past year our lives have literally been transformed! Everyone our son is in contact with (from siblings to friends, teachers and extended family) have been amazed by the incredible changes he has gone through. Jill has been central to all of this progress; she is an absolutely star! Her ability to get through to children, make them comfortable and to put us at ease is hard to describe, she is just a sea of calmness. Visiting her is one of the highlights of our son's week. We can never thank her enough for what she has done for him, us and our family" (MMC, Jan 08)

Support group for mothers - Grup Gemma

Recommended by Carrie Frais

Catalan support group for pregnant women and mothers. There are also very interesting articles online.
Meetings are held in Central Barcelona every Tuesday between 11 and 1pm.
Centro Cívico Sagrada Familia, Calle Mallorca, 425, 433 3º - Sala 3 BIS consulta@grupgemma.org, www.grupgemma.org
 

Tender Loving Canguros

Recommended by Lara Pennington

International nanny & babysitting agency for a one-off occasion or for a set period of time. All references provided.
Contact Lucie Bloor 647605989,info@tlcanguros.com  www.tlcanguros.com

Comments:
 "TLC found me a fantastic nanny who is exactly what I was looking for.
I went back to work after just 4 weeks so I needed someone with good references & experience with small babies. I also wanted someone  happy, gentle and enthusiastic about playing with my son !
TLC sent me several nannys to interview and I am very pleased with the person I chose. I go to work feeling confident about leaving him with her for 6 hours a day" (LP, Jan 08)
 

Yoga & Holistic Therapies Barcelona

Recommended by Collage Barcelona

Centre for Yoga and holistic therapies including post-natal care, acupuncture, massage and Reiki. There are various contact numbers depending on the kind of treatment you would like.
Calle Aribau 61 www.anahata-bcn.com

Comments:
Vinyasa Yoga
Corita: 60565738, yoga@anahata-bcn.com
Therapeutic Massage and Holistic Therapies
Maya: 691 220326, acupunturaquanyin@yahoo.es
Pilar: 665639993, pirulomba@hotmail.com
Suzy: 605066177, suzy@soma-sana.com

Zoe Holden - Homeopath

Recommended by Chris Weber

Zoe Holden is UK trained and has been studying and practising classical homeopathy since 1999. She offers a personal, caring approach to holistic healthcare. Her focus on you as an individual, and on your specific physical and emotional symptoms, results in long lasting benefits. Zoe treats babies, children, pregnant women and adults in her beautiful clinic in Gracia. Centre Cos, Gran de Gracia 77,Pral, 1.  www.zoeholden.com

Comments
"My daughter and I have both had the pleasure of working with Zoe; she has cared for us with knowledge and gentle encouragement.  It was easy to schedule appointments and she was available for follow up questions by email which meant a lot to us.  We happily recommend her to all mumabroad.com families" (CW, Aug 08)