Colorado Shines, the Department of Human Services program that rates child care and preschool programs, has added 54 programs to its highest ranking.

The Office of Early Childhood’s list has grown its list of rated programs to 848, showing parents and guardians which ones meet and exceed state licensing requirements. DHS ranks programs on levels 1 to 5.

The ratings are available on the Colorado Shines website, a tool that helps families find care for newborns to 5-year-olds and, in some cases, financial assistance to help pay for quality childcare.

“New parents face so many new challenges, finding high quality child care shouldn’t have to be one of them,” DHS executive director Reggie Bicha said in a statement.”Colorado is always working to pioneer new ways to help parents ensure their children are laying a solid foundation for lifelong learning and growth. Using Colorado Shines’ list of high-quality facilities is the best way to learn more about the top early childhood programs in our state that help set more Colorado kids’ up for a lifetime of success.”

Licensed facilities have to operate a minimum of Level 1, meaning the program meets state health and safety standards, and Level 2 represents an improvement above the basic requirement.

Levels 3 to 5 recognize additional support for health and safety, training and effectiveness of staff, a “supportive learning environment” that teaches children skills, involvement of families in children’s learning, strong leadership and good business practices.

“When looking for a program for your child, it’s important for parents to remember that no two early learning programs look alike,” Stacey Kennedy, the state director of child care quality initiatives, said in a statement. “Find the licensed, high-quality program that provides a supportive learning environment, well-trained staff and a warm and welcoming setting for parents and children by using Colorado Shines as a starting point in your research.”