Choosing Quality Child Care with Maryland EXCELS

We know choosing the right child care for your child is a big decision. Our easy-to-use resources include tips on what to look for in quality child care, how to find the right program, and why choosing a quality-rated program matters.

Find a Program Directory

The Find a Program Directory allows you to search for licensed child care programs and compare their quality ratings, services, and achievements.

Find a Program Directory

Videos

Check out our Checklists Moments video below to learn about how to identify key elements of a quality program.

Video Transcript (English | Spanish)

Also, make sure you’re looking for the Maryland EXCELS quality rating badge. Check out our Family Awareness video below to learn more about quality ratings.

Video Transcript (English | Spanish)

Our Tips for Choosing Quality videos also provide guidance and suggestions for your search for child care.

Tip 1: How to Find Child Care
Finding child care begins and ends with what’s best for you and your child.
Video Transcript (PDF)
Tip 2: Interviewing Child Care Providers
A great way to narrow your choices is with phone interviews.
Video Transcript (PDF)
Tip 3: Visiting Child Care Programs
Once you’ve shortened your list of providers, it’s time to visit the programs.
Video Transcript (PDF)
Tip 4: Choosing a Program
It’s time to reflect on how well the potential providers meet your expectations.
Video Transcript (PDF)

Printable Resources

Take our resources with you or share them with families and community groups.