CDA

(Child Development Associate Credential)

A CDA credential is a nationally-recognized credential awarded to qualified caregivers who work with children from birth to age 5. You can earn a CDA with an emphasis on center-based preschool, center-based infant-toddler or family child care.

 

Individuals who earn the credential must:

  • be 18 or older.
  • hold a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • have 480 hours of experience working with children within 
    the past 5 years.
  • complete 120 hours of education in 8 topic areas within
    the past 5 years.
  • develop a professional resource file.

  • demonstrate their ability to nurture children’s physical, social emotional and intellectual growth in a child development framework.

Here is an overview of the steps involved in earning a CDA through the direct assessment method. You, as the CDA candidate, take charge of the process yourself. We have information, timelines and training courses to help you, but you are in charge of your own professional development. 

  • You send for a CDA application packet from the Council for Early Childhood Professional Recognition.
  • You attend and verify 120 hours of training in 8 areas of  training specialization.
  • You develop a professional resource file.
  • You develop six statements of competency.
  • You send out and collect Parent Opinion Questionnaires.

  • You work with an advisor and set times for observations and feedback.

  • You complete the final application form.

  • You meet with a CDA Representative who interviews you, administers a written assessment and reviews your documentation of competence.

A CDA Credential

  • is one qualification for head teachers in child care center in New York State.
  • is required by Head Start as a minimum requirement for a head teacher.

How The Council Can Help You Earn Your CDA

The CDA (Child Development Associate) is a credential that is awarded to individuals who earn it by completing training requirements and demonstrating competence. It belongs to the individual, not to any program or agency.


The work associated with earning a CDA also belongs to individuals, not to programs or agencies. If you are an individual who wants to earn your CDA, the Council can help you.  The Council offers:  

  • quarterly CDA information sessions that explain the CDA process.

  • a suggested time line for using Council programs towards earning your CDA.

  • training that is especially well-suited to CDA requirements, The Early Childhood Education Building Blocks.

  • the First Aid course required for your CDA credential.

  • a tutorial course that hooks you up with an expert-level mentor/advisor.

If you are ready to take an important step in your professional development and choose to work towards your CDA, check out all the information here. Then get started by signing up for training and a CDA information session. We wish you the best as you work to grow professionally.

If you would like to contact the national CDA organization, the Council for Professional Recognition, for information or to ask for your candidate packet you may call (800) 424-4310.

You may also fax your requests to order CDA materials to:  (202) 462-6184; or fax your questions about the CDA program to:  (202) 265-9161.