Maryland EXCELS is the state’s quality rating and improvement system for child care and early education programs that works to improve the quality of child care across Maryland and to educate families about how to choose high-quality care.

When you see a Maryland EXCELS Quality Rating Badge or certificate, you can be confident that the program is committed to providing the best quality service for children from birth through school-age. Check out our new video Because Quality Matters to learn more about participating in Maryland EXCELS.

Do you support families in searching for a child care program? Checklist Moments provides tips to consider when choosing a high-quality child care program.

Questions about a program’s Maryland EXCELS Quality Rating or using these materials? Contact a member of our Support Team or email info@marylandexcels.org.

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Information for Families
Help families to better understand why finding a high-quality program matters.
What is Maryland EXCELS?
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Choosing Quality Child Care
Guide families in choosing high-quality child care with these valuable resources.
Choosing Quality
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Getting Started
Learn more about resources to help programs get started in Maryland EXCELS.
Getting Started
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Improving Quality Ratings
Support programs on how to increase their quality rating with these resources.
Quick Guides
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Benefits to Participants
Learn more about the benefits available to Maryland EXCELS participants.
Maryland EXCELS Benefits
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Maryland EXCELS Bonuses
Bonuses are available for all eligible programs through June 30, 2025.
Available Bonuses