New York City Launches Free Childcare for 2-Year-Olds

City invites new early childhood educators to expand services for young families.

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

New York City Mayor Mamdani announced the launch of a Request for Response (RFR) to provide free childcare services for 2- and 3-year-olds. This is the first step in a comprehensive expansion of early childhood care and preschool education, with the goal of covering all families in need within four years. This is the first time in five years the city has opened up new childcare opportunities.

Why it matters

Access to affordable, high-quality childcare is a critical issue for many New York families. This new initiative aims to ensure all young children have the opportunity to receive early education and care, supporting child development and enabling parents to participate in the workforce.

The details

The RFR invites new early childhood education providers to apply to offer free childcare services for 2- and 3-year-olds across the city. This marks the first major expansion of the city's early childhood programs since 2021, when budget constraints limited growth. Mayor Mamdani has prioritized universal childcare as a key policy goal, with the goal of providing access to all families in need within four years.

  • The RFR was launched on Thursday, February 6, 2026.
  • The city aims to expand free childcare to all families in need within four years.

The players

Mayor Mamdani

The current mayor of New York City who has prioritized expanding access to early childhood education.

New York City

The local government launching the new free childcare initiative for 2- and 3-year-olds.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Access to affordable, high-quality childcare is a critical issue for many New York families. This new initiative aims to ensure all young children have the opportunity to receive early education and care, supporting child development and enabling parents to participate in the workforce.”

— Mayor Mamdani (ground.news)

What’s next

The city will review applications from new childcare providers and begin rolling out free services for 2- and 3-year-olds in the coming months.

The takeaway

This expansion of free childcare services in New York City represents a significant investment in early childhood education and support for working families. It demonstrates the city's commitment to ensuring all young children have access to the care and learning opportunities they need to thrive.