Child Development Associate (CDA)

The Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential is the most widely recognized credential in early childhood education and is the best first step on the path of career advancement for early childhood professionals. The distinctive CDA credential is the only nationally recognized, portable, competency-based credential of its kind in the United States.

CDA recipients are able to better meet the specific needs of children and work with parents and other adults to nurture children’s physical, social, emotional and intellectual growth in a child development framework.

Child Development Associates are individuals who have successfully completed the CDA Assessment and have been awarded a CDA credential by the Council for Professional Recognition.

This nine-month program is designed to support students as they work towards earning a CDA. There are many advantages to participating in the 4C program, including:

• • convenient class times and locations in the Miami Valley and Southwest Ohio;
  • skilled instructors with years of experience in early childhood education;
  • assistance with documentation requirements and preparing for the CDA Exam and Verification Visit;
  • opportunities to learn within a community of other early childhood education professionals.

Yes! Scholarships are available in each region. Attend a CDA orientation in the region in which you work to learn more about how much each scholarship is worth and how to apply.

CDA credentials need to be renewed every three years. To renew, you will need to complete 45 clock hours (4.5 CEU’s) of training in advanced early childhood development and complete a CDA Renewal Packet. 4C staff will guide you step-by-step through the entire CDA renewal process. Contact our specialists listed below for more information.

Candidates not enrolled in the 4C CDA Preparation Program may hire 4C staff to assist with:

• • training hours review and plan for training
  • a Pre-Verification Visit observation
  • assistance and review of Professional Portfolio

Renewal Services
4C staff can assist those renewing CDA credentials by providing:

• • training hours review and plan for training
  • observation and letter of recommendation

Professional Development Options
A complete listing of early childhood training and classes can be found in our online catalog. You can search by date, topic, location, age group/category and instructor.