Listed below are brief descriptions of common types of child care programs in New York State. Each program is regulated by the state Office of Children and Family Services, except New York City-based day care centers, which are regulated by the New York City Department of Health.
Day Care Centers - provide care for more than six children at a time, not
in a personal residence.
Small Day Care Centers - provide care for up to six children, not in a
personal residence.
Family Day Care Homes - provide care for three to six children at a time
in a residence; may add one or two school-age children. The maximum allowable
number of children will depend on whether there are and how many infants are in
care.
Group Family Day Care Homes - provide care for seven to twelve children
at a time in a residence; may add one or two school-age children. The maximum
allowable number of children will depend on whether there are and how many
infants are in care. A provider must use an assistant when more that six
children are present.
Each of the programs listed above can serve children ages six weeks through
twelve years and operate for more than three hours a day.
School-Age Child Care Programs - provide care for more than six children from kindergarten through age twelve. Care for children during non-school hours; also may provide care during school vacation periods and holidays.