Introduction

The Child Development Associate (CDA) credential is a professional certification that empowers early childhood educators to advance their skills, improve their work with young children, and grow their careers.

This credential validates your knowledge and experience in early childhood education, ensuring that you’re well-prepared to support children’s developmental needs.

This guide will walk you through each step of the CDA application process, so you’ll have everything you need to apply confidently without needing to look elsewhere.

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

To begin the CDA application process, you need to check if you meet the basic eligibility requirements. These are essential criteria set by the Council for Professional Recognition, the organization that administers the CDA credential.

• Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to apply.

• Education Requirement: A high school diploma or equivalent (such as a GED) is necessary. If you’re still in high school, you’ll need to wait until graduation.

• Experience Requirement: You need to have completed at least 480 hours of work experience with young children within the past three years. This experience must be with children from the specific age group you want your CDA credential in, such as infants, toddlers, or preschoolers.

• Training Hours: A minimum of 120 hours of formal early childhood education training covering key CDA subject areas is required.

Eligibility Self-Checklist

Before proceeding, consider making a simple checklist to see if you meet all these requirements. If you’re missing any, you can focus on obtaining them before moving on to the next steps.

Step 2: Choose Your CDA Setting and Specialty Area

The CDA credential is flexible, allowing you to choose the setting and specialty area that matches your professional experience and career goals. There are three main CDA settings:

• Center-Based: For teachers working in child care centers, daycares, or preschools.

• Family Child Care: For those who care for children in a home-based setting.

• Home Visitor: Specifically for professionals who visit families’ homes to support children’s learning and development.

Each setting has its own unique requirements, and the CDA credential requires you to choose a specialty area based on the age group you work with:

• Infants and Toddlers (0-36 months)

• Preschool (3-5 years)

• Family Child Care (0-5 years for home-based settings)

Consider your daily work environment and career aspirations when selecting your setting and specialty. This choice will impact the type of CDA training and resources you’ll need.

Step 3: Complete the Required CDA Training Hours

One of the most crucial steps in the CDA application process is completing the required 120 hours of formal education. These hours must be divided across specific content areas that cover core aspects of early childhood education.

Content Areas Breakdown

These 120 hours should be distributed as follows:

• 40 hours in child growth and development.

• 10 hours in advancing children’s physical and intellectual development.

• 10 hours in supporting children’s social and emotional development.

• 10 hours in building productive relationships with families.

• 10 hours in managing an effective program.

• 10 hours in maintaining a commitment to professionalism.

• 10 hours in observing and recording children’s behavior.

• 20 hours in safety, health, and nutrition.

Finding CDA Training Programs

You can complete CDA training through various accredited institutions, including community colleges, online programs, and local training centers. Look for programs that are recognized by the Council for Professional Recognition, as these will offer quality training aligned with the CDA requirements.

Keeping Track of Hours and Coursework

Make sure to keep a detailed record of your training hours, courses completed, and any certificates obtained. This will be essential for your application and for building a professional portfolio (covered in the next step).

Step 4: Prepare Your Professional Portfolio

Your CDA Professional Portfolio is a key component of the application process. This is a collection of documents and resources that demonstrate your knowledge, skills, and readiness as an early childhood educator.

Components of the Professional Portfolio

1. Statements of Competence: Write six reflective statements, one for each of the CDA competency goals. Each statement should explain how you support children’s development and learning in each area. For example, you might describe how you create a nurturing environment or engage children in play-based learning.

2. Resource Collection: Compile resources you use to support your work with children, such as:

• Sample lesson plans or activity sheets.

• Health and safety checklists.

• Sample parent newsletters or family handouts.

• Examples of educational activities or games you use.

1. Family Questionnaires: Collect feedback from the families you work with. The Council for Professional Recognition requires you to submit these questionnaires as part of your portfolio, providing an opportunity to see how your work is perceived by families.

Organizing the Portfolio

Your portfolio can be digital or physical, depending on what’s easier for you. If you prefer a physical binder, create labeled dividers for each section. If you’re going digital, use folders and subfolders to keep everything organized and easy to access during your CDA Verification Visit.

Step 5: Submit Your CDA Application Online

Once your portfolio is complete and you’ve met all the requirements, you’re ready to submit your CDA application.

Creating an Account on the CDA Council Website

Visit the Council for Professional Recognition’s website and create an account. You’ll use this account to fill out and submit your application online.

Completing the Application Form

The application form will ask for details about your background, training, work experience, and more. Double-check each section to ensure accuracy.

Application Fee and Payment Options

The current application fee can vary depending on the CDA setting you’ve chosen. Be sure to review the fee structure on the CDA Council’s website and be prepared to pay via credit card or other accepted methods. If financial assistance is needed, look into scholarships or employer reimbursement options.

Step 6: Schedule the CDA Verification Visit and Exam

After submitting your application, you’ll need to complete a Verification Visit with a Professional Development (PD) Specialist and pass the CDA exam.

The Role of the PD Specialist

A PD Specialist will visit you at your workplace to observe your interaction with children and evaluate your portfolio. This professional will assess your skills and provide feedback based on your competencies.

Selecting Your PD Specialist

Choose a PD Specialist who meets the requirements set by the CDA Council. You can use the council’s directory to find qualified professionals in your area. Reach out to them early to confirm availability and schedule your visit.

What to Expect During the Verification Visit

The PD Specialist will observe you in action and conduct a reflective dialogue with you afterward. Use this opportunity to showcase your skills, discuss your portfolio, and reflect on your teaching philosophy.

Preparing for the CDA Exam

The CDA exam is a multiple-choice test covering core areas of early childhood education. Take practice exams if available, and review key concepts in child development, health, and safety to boost your confidence.

Step 7: After the Verification Visit – Awaiting Results

Once your Verification Visit and exam are complete, you’ll need to wait for the results.

Receiving Results

It typically takes a few weeks for the Council to review your application, Verification Visit, and exam results. You can check the status of your application through your online account.

Possible Outcomes

• Credential Granted: Congratulations! You’ve earned your CDA credential.

• Credential Deferred: You may be asked to resubmit certain materials or complete additional training.

• Credential Denied: In rare cases, applicants may not meet the criteria. You can reapply after addressing any gaps or requirements.

Next Steps If Denied

If you don’t receive your credential on the first try, don’t be discouraged. Reach out for feedback, consider additional training if needed, and consult mentors or other professionals for guidance.

Step 8: Maintaining Your CDA Credential

The CDA credential is valid for three years. To maintain it, you’ll need to renew your credential before it expires.

Renewal Requirements

To renew, you must complete ongoing education or training, submit a recommendation from a supervisor, and pay a renewal fee.

Continuing Professional Development

Staying engaged in professional development is essential for maintaining your CDA. Consider taking workshops, earning additional certifications, or joining early childhood education groups.

Building on Your CDA Credential

The CDA can serve as a stepping stone to further qualifications, such as an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in early childhood education.

Common Questions About the CDA Application Process

1. How long does the application process typically take?

• It varies by individual but usually takes several months from start to finish.

1. What are the costs involved in obtaining a CDA credential?

• Between training costs, application fees, and renewal fees, the costs can vary widely.

1. Can the process be completed online?

• Most steps can be completed online, except for the in-person Verification Visit.

1. Is financial aid available for CDA training or application fees?

• Some employers and local organizations may offer financial assistance.

1. What is the difference between Center-Based, Family Child Care, and Home Visitor CDA?

• Each setting caters to different work environments, affecting the type of training and portfolio preparation needed.

Conclusion

The CDA credential is a meaningful accomplishment that demonstrates your commitment to high-quality early childhood education. By following this step-by-step guide, you can approach the CDA application process confidently, knowing you have the tools and knowledge needed to succeed.