Can’t find care that fits your shift?

You’re not the only parent stuck on a waitlist, and you’re not failing — the system is. Here’s what actually exists in New York, who qualifies, and what to do next. No membership, no meeting, no pitch.

All about Universal Child Care in a single PDF.

Our full parent guide explains every program, who qualifies, what it costs, when to apply, and what to do when the waitlist is full. Tell us a little about your family and download it below.

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Child care programs you should take advantage of.

2-K and 3-K

Free, city-funded child care for 2- and 3-year-olds in New York City. 2-K is the newest win and seats are opening in stages.

  • 2-K: free care for 2-year-olds, first seats opening in NYC this fall.

  • 3-K: free care for 3-year-olds; every NYC family is eligible, but seats vary by district.

  • Apply through MySchools — sooner is better, waitlists move.

Subsidies & vouchers

If you pay for care now, you may qualify for help that covers most or all of the bill — even if you were turned down before.

  • CCAP (the child-care voucher) can cover care from birth through age 12.

  • Eligibility is based on household size and income, and the income limits went up.

  • Head Start / Early Head Start add free care for infants and toddlers in many neighborhoods.

Pre-K across New York

Free Pre-K for 4-year-olds statewide — and, for the first time, funding to reach families outside the five boroughs.

  • Universal Pre-K is free for every 4-year-old in New York State.

  • Outside NYC, availability depends on your district — we can help you check.

  • Our Pre-K campaign is fighting to make the seats actually reach every county.