Child Development Associate – Center-Based
This 100% online course prepares you for the Child Development Associate® (CDA) certification process via the Council for Professional Recognition.
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What to Know at a Glance
Duration
120 Hours
Delivery
100% online
Scheduling Options
Start anytime
Where it is offered
Online
About Our Child Development Program
Childcare development specialists play crucial roles in the education and development of many children. They are responsible to provide safe, nurturing environments, help children learn cognitive, emotional and physical skills and grow during their most formative years. This 100% online course prepares you for the Child Development Associate® (CDA) certification process via the Council for Professional Recognition. Upon successful completion, you will be ready to earn your early childhood education certification.
- Evaluate and make recommendations for modifications of regulations regarding children’s health, safety, and learning environments
- Identify typical stages of cognitive, linguistic, physical, social, and emotional development
- Develop a list of developmentally appropriate activities and materials
- Implement appropriate guidance techniques for specific situations relating to children’s behaviors
- Demonstrate skills in practical application of developmental principles and theories
- Apply the competency statements into practice in an early childhood setting
- Prepare to become a certified child development associate professional
There are no prerequisites to take this course. To be eligible for the CDA certification, you must have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED (or be a junior or senior in a high school career and technical program) and complete 120 hours of formal early childhood technical education. You must also complete a CDA professional portfolio and a CDA verification site visit where a PD Specialist observes you working with children. Please Note: Within three years of submitting your application, you must also have 480 hours (about three weeks) of professional work experience at a center-based program with experience in all three age groups.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts 8% growth for Childcare Workers between now and 2030, matching expected growth rates for all jobs. The BLS expects demand for early childhood education to remain strong due to its influence on a child’s intellectual and emotional development. According to PayScale.com, childcare professionals with CDA certification earn $35,000 per year, on average, and 80% of CDAs report that they are ‘very happy’ with their profession.
Child Development Associate FAQs
The CDA is considered the most widely known and valued credential for early childhood development professionals. It provides a rigorous and proven framework for a child’s personal, intellectual and social growth. CDA-certified professionals demonstrate abilities to establish and maintain safe environments, advance intellectual competence, and establish productive relationships with families.
Yes. Education professionals are responsible to regulators, parents and the public for the quality and safety of the environments they create. The CDA signals to potential employers and the education community that you are a professional dedicated to the highest standards in child development.
Providing a safe, healthy environment is among the highest priorities for excellent childcare. The CDA prepares you specifically to work within the structure of a childcare center. This course includes the procedures and materials required to prepare for a CDA-required site visit.
Instructors
Kerri Welch has over 20 years of extensive experience in the field of early childhood education. With the CDA credential, she previously served as an instructor and field supervisor at Dutchess Community College in New York and as a PD Specialist for the CDA Council. She is currently teaching child development classes at Houston Community College. She has a Master of Science in early childhood education with a focus on students with disabilities, a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, and an associate degree in early childhood education.