ATTENTION CHILD CARE PROVIDERS: Click here to log in to the Provider Hub to update your operating status with Licensing. This will be necessary to access the various supports offered through the Department.

A Brighter Future

As a parent or caregiver, you want the best for the children in your life. From their health and wellness to their development and growth, the choices you make for them today will help to determine their success later on.

Learn More

Your Partner in Early Learning

Colorado Shines is a quality rating and improvement system that monitors and supports early learning programs. Its primary functions are to help participating programs and professionals improve their quality through assessment, training and tools, and to connect Colorado families with quality child care.

 Learn More

Start Early, Start Strong.

Experts report that new neural connections in the brain form at rapid rates during the first few years of life – a fact that explains why early learning is a critical part of childhood. Colorado Shines helps parents and caregivers find a quality early learning program, where professionals work with children to maximize their potential and start kindergarten ready to learn.

 Learn More

A Strong Foundation

Whether you are a parent or caregiver looking for an early learning program, or perhaps a professional wanting to enhance your own knowledge and skills, Colorado Shines is here to support you.

Learn More
L

The Best Things in Life Are Free

The Colorado Shines program is free for both families and early learning professionals. Additionally, if you’re a licensed child care provider, you’re invited to access the system and its wealth of information at no cost to your program.

Learn More

Take Our Annual Family Survey

Parents or guardians of children under the age of 6 years old are invited to take a survey to help the Colorado Department of Early Childhood ensure families have access to the quality early childhood programs and services of their choosing.

TAKE THE SURVEY

For Families

For Programs

For Professionals