Become a Certified Child Development Associate (CDA)
Childcare professionals play a vital role in early childhood development. This 100% online course will train you for a career in child development and help you pass the Council of Professional Recognition’s CDA certification exam. Key topics include procedures and strategies for creating a safe and enriching childcare environment.
Kevin Feeley
BS in Electrical Engineering
HVCC Class of 2005
Job Outlook for Childcare Professionals
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the demand for childcare professionals is projected to increase by 11% through the year 2026, which is slightly faster than the average.
- The average annual salary for childcare professionals is $21,170 and $28,790 for preschool teachers. With experience in the field, that wage could increase.
Child Development Associate Training FAQs
Childcare professionals ensure the welfare, health, and safety of children under their care. Other common childcare job titles include:
- Childcare Worker
- Childcare Professional
- Daycare Worker
- Child Development Specialist
- Child Development Center Assistant
Most work is completed in childcare centers, however some roles, like in-home daycare providers, will work at their own home or their clients’ homes.
The CDA is a nationally recognized credential that demonstrates a childcare professional’s skills, competencies, and knowledge. According to the Council for Professional Recognition, CDAs are able to “nurture the emotional, physical, intellectual, and social development of children.”
Earning a Child Development Associate credential can be a steppingstone to career advancement in the early childhood education field. Many CDAs go on to work in education as preschool or elementary school teachers.
Child Development Associate Training Objectives
- Understand development stages for infants, toddlers and preschool-aged children
- Build the ability to establish positive and productive relationships with school personnel, families, and child students
- Effectively manage a childcare facility
- Know standard procedures and strategies needed to provide a safe and enriching childcare environment
Prerequisites and Requirements
There are no specific prerequisites for taking this course. This course is 100% online. Start anytime.
Curriculum
- Childcare & Education I
Business aspects of childcare facilities; personnel techniques and procedures
- Childcare & Education II
Establishing positive relationships with parents and families; providing a safe and secure childcare environment
- Childcare & Education III
Development stages for infants, toddlers, and pre-school age children; effective techniques for fostering positive self esteem
- Childcare & Education IV
Early childhood academic and enrichment activities; managing behaviors, resolving conflicts
Instructors
Darlene Lawrence
Darlene Lawrence is an academic coach and childcare and education instructor with five years of experience. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s degree in teaching.
