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What is your name, age, where do you live and how long have you lived in Sitges?
My name is Claire Bodgers, I'm 41 and I've lived in Sant Pere de Ribes for about 2 years.
Do you work, and if so what do you do?
I work as a freelance TEFL teacher occasionally. I'm mostly a full time mum these days.
What nationality are you and your partner?
I'm British and Adrian is Spanish.
How many children do you have and what are their names and ages?
We have one child Daniel. He was one year old on 8 December 2007.
What was your experience of having a baby in Sitges? (if relevant)
I had Daniel in Sant Camil Hospital and I'd say the prenatal care is very thorough but once the child is born the Spanish philosophy is to cut you loose and let the family rally around. It's still a very matriarchal society, which is great if your with your family but not so great if you're on your own.
What language do you speak to your children?
I speak English. Adrian speaks castellano and the guardería speak catalan.
How well integrated would you say your children are in the local community?
Very well integrated thanks to the mums I met in antenatal classes and baby massage classes. We now meet every week to swim and go to each others children's birthday parties etc. Also the guardería serves as a great social tool for both Daniel and I.
What has your impression been of childcare and education in Sitges so far (if relevant)?
The education system is a lottery. Just getting a place in the local guardería was time consuming and full of typical Spanish 'burocracy gone mad'.
How do you rate the amenities available for parents and children in Sitges?
I believe there are a vast amount of amenities which, as yet, I have not tapped into but baby massage, parent and baby yoga, sitges playgroup and swimming classes have certainly been a god-send.
Where you live, how good are facilities for children (shops, restaurants, activities etc)?
There are good restaurant facilities apart from the fact that some remain smoking establishments. On the whole though I feel Spanish society welcomes children.
What do you think are the main advantages and disadvantages of being a parent from the International Community living in Sitges?
I see myself as a hybrid as Adrian is Spanish and therefore we avail ourselves of both British and Spanish activities and draw upon the experiences of international friends and family. The one drawback for me is the catalan language.
Is there anything you think would improve children´s lives in Sitges?
Can't think of anything!
What do you wish you had been told before you came to Sitges?
That I couldn't have gas and air during labour. They only seem to offer epidurals.
What advice would you give for anyone having a baby or thinking of relocating to Sitges with children?
Immerse yourself as much as possible in the culture and avail yourself of all the classes and activities on offer. It's a perfect way to make friends and help your little one to integrate.
What couldn´t you live without in Sitges?
The occasional English breakfast!!
What could you live without?!
Summer tourists!!Recommended by New user 1