Which are the most reputable au pair agencies?

[Anonymous]

We're thinking of getting an au pair for next summer. There are so many agencies out there. I've heard that State Department-approved are the way to go, but is there any way to narrow down the search? Any sugestions from personal experience?

[Anonymous]

I've been working with Go Au Pair for three years (2nd AP). I really like them, but they don't seem to be as heavily used in this area as other agencies. Although, I think that's a good thing as our LLC only has about 15 families to manage. I picked GAP because my sisters and her friends (in Boston) all used them. I went on the recommendation of others.

Good luck. I've really had a great experience with both APs I've had.

[Anonymous]

hi
If you still intrested in a Au-pair feel free to contact me Culture Care [e-mail] for more info.

Thanks have a great Evening.

[Anonymous]

hi
If you still intrested in a Au-pair feel free to contact me Culture Care [e-mail] for more info.

Thanks have a great Evening.

[Anonymous]

They (the state dept real agencies) are all pretty much the same. Within each one, you will have areas of the world where they get more or less APs, areas of the country that they do or do not service and each agency will have some fantastic LCCs and some real stinkers. It's a crap shoot, so roll your dice and be prepared to inform and help yourself as needed through the process. I've had one great LCC in 6 years of hosting and she lasted 6 months. The rest have had some really great advice, like if you find out your underage AP is drinking, you should unfriend her on facebook, so you won't know about it anymore - real gems! I apply to 3 agencies every year and then go with whichever one has the AP I find that I like best. The one difference I will note is that APIA has the extraodinaire program which a few HMs swear is worth the extra money - I think I might be trying it next year.