Interview with Amanda Johnston
What is your name, age and how long have you lived in Moraira?
Amanda Johnston, 40 (eek) and been here since beg of Dec 09
What nationality are you and your partner?
British - both
How many children do you have and what are their names and ages?
2, Max 2.5 years and Bella 10 months (March 2010)
Do you work and if so what do you do?
Mother, cleaner, cook, general slave to my children
What was your experience of having a baby in Spain?
none - both UK
What was your experience of relocating to Moraira with children?
No problem
How well intergrated would you say you and your children are?
Pretty good now, Mumabroad.com website was absolutely key
What language do you speak to your children?
English
What is your impression of childcare and education in Moraira so far?
There is no nursery in Moraira that I am aware of, local school has ok reputation, no playgroups so we go to javea for most things like that
What school do your children go to?
Rainbow nursery
Why did you choose this school and are you happy with your choice?
Great atmosphere and very happy
Where you live, how good are the facilities for children (shops, resturants, activities etc?)
Good play areas, lovely beach, spanish are so good with kids that most restaurants are fine. No activiites in area that I know of hence we go to Javea for mini movers altho we will start Jumping Jems in April which is at Lady Elizabeth school in Cumbre del Sol.
Are there any particular activities, groups, classes etc for children in Moraira that you would recommend?
None that I know of
Are there any particular service providers (doctors, dentists, babysitters, tutors etc) for children that you would recommend?
The local health centre has been great for the children, just by the big free car park. Haven't used any babysitters yet
What do you think are the main advantages and disadvantages of being a parent from the international community living in Moraira?
Advantages: Its a beautiful place to live, feels very safe and child friendly and is so good to wake up here as opposed to London!
Disadvantages: none, although I'm not sure how good the local states schools are if parents are unable to afford the international schools - something I have yet to find out!
Is there anything that you think would improve childrens lives living in Moraira?
I think there should be football for boys and girls from 2 years old, and more dance and music classes available.
What advice would you give anyone having a baby or thinking of relocating to Moraira with children?
To check out the mumabroad website and to talk to anyone you can to get more info (and relay it back to you)
What couldn’t you live without in Moraira?
Pepe Le Sal (supermarket in town) have child size trolleys which keeps Max amused during the shopping trip (and he looks very funny pushing it so I am amused too). The duck pond is a great and the new play area close to it is great too.
What could you live without in Moraira?
Dog poo
(March 2010)
