Mayor Mamdani Delivers Universal Child Care in First 100 Days

New York City's new administration makes sweeping progress on affordable, accessible child care for working families.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:22pm

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In his first 100 days in office, New York City Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani has made significant strides toward providing universal child care, a key part of his affordability agenda. The administration has launched new 2-K and 3-K programs, reduced bureaucratic barriers for child care providers, and introduced innovative digital tools to help families access available resources.

Why it matters

Accessible, affordable child care is essential infrastructure that supports working families, creates jobs, and strengthens the local economy. Mayor Mamdani's swift action in his first 3 months demonstrates the transformative impact government can have when it prioritizes the needs of families.

The details

Key initiatives in the first 100 days include launching 2-K for free child care for 2-year-olds, expanding 3-K seats in all five boroughs, streamlining the child care permitting process, and introducing new digital tools to help families find and compare programs. The administration has also engaged directly with child care providers, visited early childhood centers, and included $70 million in the budget for preschool special education.

  • On day eight of the administration, Mayor Mamdani introduced 2-K in partnership with Governor Kathy Hochul.
  • The new online child care center provider permitting portal launched in the first 100 days.
  • The New York City Parent Survey and child care map and resource center were introduced on April 1, 2026.
  • Applications for the city's first free, on-site child care pilot program for municipal workers opened on April 30, 2026.

The players

Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani

The newly elected mayor of New York City who has made universal child care a central priority in his first 100 days in office.

Emmy Liss

The Executive Director of the Mayor's Office of Child Care and Early Childhood Education.

Kamar Samuels

The Schools Chancellor who is collaborating with the Mamdani administration to deliver changes for families.

Dr. Alister Martin

The NYC Health Commissioner who is working with other agencies to streamline the child care permitting process and improve access.

Melissa Hester

The Interim Commissioner of the Administration for Children's Services, committed to helping families access child care.

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What they’re saying

“Our movement is built on the belief that universal child care is essential infrastructure in a city that delivers for its people. Every dollar we invest in our children is an investment in a stronger, more equitable New York City – one where families can afford to stay and grow.”

— Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani

“Child care isn't just a service – it creates jobs, strengthens our economy and makes our city more affordable. As a parent in New York City, I know how hard it can be to find reliable, affordable child care — and how transformational it is when you do.”

— Emmy Liss, Executive Director of the Mayor's Office of Child Care and Early Childhood Education

“The progress we've made in early childhood education since January proves two things: there is a need for expansion and City support makes a real difference. Every child deserves access to a high-quality education from day one and we are committed to making that a reality.”

— Kamar Samuels, Schools Chancellor

“In just 100 days, Mayor Mamdani has made tremendous progress toward delivering universal and accessible child care, and the NYC Health Department is proud to play a collaborative role, working hand-in-hand with our sister agencies and offices to deliver on this promise for New York City families.”

— Dr. Alister Martin, NYC Health Commissioner

“Child care is an essential support for families, enabling parents to work while ensuring their children are safe, nurtured, and able to thrive. ACS remains committed to helping as many families as possible have access to child care, and we are grateful to Mayor Mamdani for delivering on this promise.”

— Melissa Hester, Administration for Children's Services Interim Commissioner

What’s next

The administration plans to continue expanding access to 2-K and 3-K programs, with the goal of achieving full universality by the end of the mayor's first term. They will also work to further improve quality and support for child care providers and families.

The takeaway

Mayor Mamdani's swift action on universal child care in his first 100 days demonstrates the transformative impact government can have when it prioritizes the needs of working families. By reducing bureaucratic barriers, engaging directly with providers, and introducing innovative digital tools, the administration is building a more equitable, affordable, and family-friendly New York City.