For the purposes of this article, the following words and terms shall be deemed to have the meaning herein given to them:
Any house, building or place where four or more children are received, cared for or kept unattended by either their parents, legal guardians or close relatives for the purpose of providing such children with food, lodging, instruction or supervision for periods of less than one day or for longer periods.
Or any other word connoting a natural person, when used in this article, shall be construed to include individuals, partnerships, corporations and associations.