Seats Still Available at City’s Early Care Programs

Open spots are still available for free or low-cost childcare programs at city-run early childhood education centers throughout the five boroughs. The program, for three and four year-olds of low-income and working families, has an enrollment deadline of October 31. In addition, there are still many subsidized seats available at city-contracted contracted childcare centers, with no enrollment deadline.

Universal pre-K programs offer children at least 2.5 hours of educational services per day, are free for qualifying families and allow parents to stay at work. Since 2002, the number of four-year-olds enrolled in universal pre-K has increased by approximately 18,000 with more than 60,000 available slots this year.

Childcare in city-contracted centers and Head Start programs can provide up to 10 hours of care depending on the type of program operated. Prospective families must qualify for subsidized childcare and Head Start. Some fees for the services may be required based on family income, though.

Parents can log onto the city's web site, and click through an interactive map to find a nearby program.