Child Care Resources
Finding affordable, safe, and reliable child care in New York City can be challenging for working families. The cost of daycare, after-school programs, summer camps, and early childhood education programs can place a major financial burden on parents and caregivers across the five boroughs. Fortunately, New York City and New York State offer a wide range of child care assistance programs, free early education opportunities, subsidies, and family support services designed to help families access quality care while supporting children’s development and learning.
Affordability.NYC connects New Yorkers to trusted information about child care subsidies, free pre-K programs, Head Start, after-school programs, summer youth opportunities, and family support resources available throughout New York City. This guide provides an overview of major child care and early education programs available to NYC families, with links to detailed program guides and eligibility information.
Child Care Assistance Programs in NYC
Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps low-income families pay for child care while parents or guardians work, attend school, participate in job training, or search for employment. The program can help cover the cost of daycare centers, family child care providers, after-school care, and other approved child care services.
Families may qualify based on income, household size, employment status, and participation in approved activities. Depending on income, families may be responsible for a small co-payment while the program covers the remaining child care costs.
Topics covered on the full program page include:
- Income eligibility requirements
- How to apply for child care vouchers
- Approved child care providers
- Work and school participation requirements
- Co-payments and subsidy amounts
- Renewal and recertification process
- Documentation needed for applications
Learn More: Child Care Assistance Program Guide
Free 3-K for All
3-K for All provides free early childhood education for three-year-old children living in New York City. Programs are available in public schools, community-based organizations, and early childhood centers across the city.
The program focuses on early learning, social development, communication skills, and structured play in a classroom environment designed to prepare children for Pre-K and kindergarten. Some programs offer extended-day and year-round options for eligible families.
Topics covered on the full program page include:
- Who is eligible for 3-K
- How to apply through MySchools
- Program schedules and options
- Extended-day and year-round eligibility
- Enrollment deadlines
- Choosing a program location
- Transportation and accessibility information
Learn More: NYC 3-K for All Guide
Free Pre-K for All (Pre-K)
Pre-K for All gives every four-year-old child in New York City access to free full-day pre-kindergarten education regardless of family income. The program helps children develop foundational academic, social, and emotional skills before entering kindergarten.
Programs are available through NYC public schools, community organizations, and early education centers. Families can choose programs based on location, language support, schedules, and educational approach.
Topics covered on the full program page include:
- How Pre-K enrollment works
- Application timelines and deadlines
- Program types and schedules
- Dual-language and special education programs
- Transportation information
- What children learn in Pre-K
- Required enrollment documents
Learn More: NYC Pre-K for All Guide
Head Start and Early Head Start Programs
Head Start and Early Head Start programs provide free early childhood education, child care, nutrition assistance, health screenings, and family support services to low-income families with young children.
Early Head Start serves infants, toddlers, and pregnant women, while Head Start serves children ages 3 to 5. Programs are designed to support healthy child development and school readiness while also assisting parents with family services and educational support.
Topics covered on the full program page include:
- Eligibility requirements
- Income guidelines
- Services included in Head Start
- Early Head Start options for infants and toddlers
- Health and developmental screenings
- Family support services
- How to find a program in NYC
Learn More: Head Start and Early Head Start Guide
NYC After-School Programs
New York City offers a variety of free and low-cost after-school programs for children and teens through schools, community organizations, libraries, and nonprofit groups. These programs provide academic support, enrichment activities, sports, arts, STEM learning, and safe supervised environments after school hours.
Many programs are available through the Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD), Beacon programs, and local community centers.
Topics covered on the full program page include:
- Free after-school programs in NYC
- DYCD-funded programs
- Academic tutoring and enrichment opportunities
- Sports and arts programming
- Teen leadership and mentoring programs
- Enrollment and application process
- Finding programs by neighborhood
Learn More: NYC After-School Programs Guide
Summer Camp and Summer Youth Programs
Summer programs help children and teens stay engaged, active, and safe while school is out of session. NYC families can access free or affordable summer camps, educational programs, arts programs, sports activities, and youth employment opportunities throughout the city.
Programs are offered by NYC Parks, DYCD, schools, nonprofit organizations, libraries, and community centers.
Topics covered on the full program page include:
- Free summer camp options
- Summer Rising programs
- Youth employment programs
- Sports and recreation programs
- STEM and educational camps
- Registration deadlines
- Financial assistance for summer programs
Learn More: NYC Summer Programs Guide
ACS Child Care Voucher Programs
The NYC Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) provides child care vouchers to eligible families to help pay for licensed child care services throughout New York City.
These vouchers can help parents access daycare while maintaining employment, attending school, or participating in approved training programs. Voucher availability and eligibility may vary based on funding and family circumstances.
Topics covered on the full program page include:
- ACS voucher eligibility
- How vouchers work
- Choosing a child care provider
- Family income limits
- Waiting lists and availability
- Renewal process
- Child care provider requirements
Learn More: ACS Child Care Voucher Guide
Child Care Resource and Referral Services
Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agencies help families find licensed child care providers, understand available subsidy programs, and access parenting resources and support services.
These organizations can assist parents with locating child care near their home or workplace, comparing providers, understanding quality ratings, and learning about financial assistance options.
Topics covered on the full program page include:
- Finding licensed child care providers
- Understanding child care quality ratings
- Financial assistance resources
- Parenting support programs
- Referrals for special needs services
- Choosing the right child care setting
- Borough-specific referral assistance
Learn More: NYC Child Care Referral Services Guide
Child Care for Children with Disabilities and Special Needs
New York City offers specialized early intervention, preschool special education, and inclusive child care programs for children with developmental delays, disabilities, or special needs.
Programs may include therapy services, classroom support, developmental screenings, and individualized educational planning designed to support children’s growth and learning.
Topics covered on the full program page include:
- Early Intervention services
- Preschool special education programs
- Developmental screenings
- Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
- Inclusive classroom options
- Therapy and support services
- How to request evaluations
Learn More: Special Needs Child Care Resources Guide
Family and Parenting Support Services
Many NYC organizations provide parenting classes, family counseling, nutrition education, mental health support, and additional family stabilization services that help support children and caregivers.
These services are available through nonprofit organizations, community centers, hospitals, schools, and city agencies.
Topics covered on the full program page include:
- Parenting workshops and classes
- Family counseling services
- Mental health support for parents and children
- Nutrition and wellness education
- Home visiting programs
- Community support groups
- Emergency family assistance resources
Learn More: NYC Family Support Services Guide
Finding Child Care in Your NYC Neighborhood
Child care availability and program options can vary by neighborhood and borough. Families are encouraged to explore local programs, schools, and community organizations to identify services that best fit their schedules, budgets, and children’s needs.
Affordability.NYC will continue expanding this section with borough-specific child care resources, neighborhood guides, enrollment tips, and updates about new child care programs and opportunities throughout New York City.
Additional neighborhood resource guides coming soon:
- Brooklyn Child Care Resources
- Bronx Child Care Programs
- Queens Family Resources
- Manhattan Early Education Programs
- Staten Island Child Care Services
Frequently Asked Questions About Child Care in NYC
Can I apply for multiple child care programs?
Yes. Families may apply for multiple programs at the same time, including CCAP subsidies, 3-K, Pre-K, after-school programs, and summer programs if they meet eligibility requirements.
Are child care programs based on income?
Some programs, such as CCAP and Head Start, are income-based. Others, including Pre-K for All and many 3-K programs, are available regardless of income.
How do I find licensed child care providers?
Families can search for licensed providers through NYC child care referral agencies, NYC government resources, and the New York State Office of Children and Family Services.
Is there free child care available in NYC?
Yes. Programs such as Pre-K for All, many 3-K programs, Head Start, and some after-school programs are free for eligible families.
Can undocumented families apply for child care programs?
Some child care and early education programs are available regardless of immigration status. Eligibility rules vary by program.
Are there programs for infants and toddlers?
Yes. Early Head Start, child care vouchers, and licensed daycare programs provide services for infants and toddlers in NYC.
Child Care Resources Can Help Families Thrive
Access to reliable and affordable child care is essential for working families, children’s development, and long-term economic stability. Programs across New York City help parents remain in the workforce while giving children access to safe learning environments and developmental support.
Affordability.NYC will continue expanding its child care resource center with detailed program guides, enrollment information, family support resources, and updates about child care opportunities throughout New York City.