Kid Stuff
WHERE CAN I FIND INFORMATION ABOUT ENGLISH-SPEAKING SCHOOLS IN THE BASEL AREA?
Most Americans (indeed most expats) send their kids to the International School of Basel (IBS), located in Reinach (Basel-land). While I like to attribute this to the fact that unlike other Swiss schools, the IBS doesn’t send kids home at lunch every day, it is more likely due to the fact that courses are taught in English. More information about IBS is available here.
WHERE CAN I FIND INFORMATION ABOUT HAVING A BABY IN BASEL?
If the number of strollers blocking the aisles of the local COOP are any indication, having a baby in Basel is THE thing to do and - according to friends who’ve done it - Switzerland makes it very easy, with benefits like waiving the deductible for your medical insurance to up to four months paid maternity leave. Centrepoint, a support group for English speaking women in Basel offers this resource, Having a Baby in Basel (pdf file).
ARE THERE ENGLISH-SPEAKING DAYCARE OPTIONS IN BASEL?
As easy as having a baby might be in Switzerland, having it cared for while you are working is, by some accounts, a bit more challenging. You can find some English-speaking day care recommendations in “Having a Baby in Basel” (pdf file). If you know of and would like to recommend another resource please let us know by emailing karena.meehan@balehoo.com.
IS THERE A SUPPORT GROUP FOR ENGLISH-SPEAKING NEW MOMS IN BASEL?
Yes, there are several. Information about one of the most popular “Bumps and Babes” is available at the Basel Childbirth Trust website. More information is also available in Having a Baby in Basel (pdf file). If you know of and would like to recommend another support group please let us know by emailing karena.meehan@balehoo.com.