The Child Development Associate (CDA) credential is one of the most recognized #early-childhood education credentials in the United States. It shows that you understand how young children grow and learn, and that you can support children in a safe, nurturing environment.
In Michigan, #early-childhood- #educators use CDA training to meet professional #development goals, satisfy part of licensing requirements, and strengthen their knowledge of best practices in early care and education. Before we take a deep look at the subject areas, let’s talk about what the CDA credential involves and why it matters.
What Is the CDA Credential?
The Child Development Associate credential is awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition. To earn it, educators must complete:
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120 hours of formal training covering the eight CDA subject areas,
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480 hours of work experience in your chosen setting (such as center-based care),
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A professional portfolio and assessment.
The training covers everything from safety and health to professional conduct — topics that support quality practices in the #classroom and beyond. Many providers in Michigan choose online training because it allows flexibility around work and personal schedules.
Why CDA Training Matters in Michigan
In Michigan, #early-childhood professionals must meet certain training requirements based on their role. For example:
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Lead caregivers often need a CDA or equivalent number of training hours.
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Center staff must complete continuing education annually.
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CDA training fulfills part of the professional #growth expectations, and many Michigan employers recognize it as evidence of competence.
This makes understanding the subject areas not just helpful for earning your credential — but also valuable in your daily work with young children and families.
The 8 CDA Subject Areas: Explained
CDA training is built around eight core areas. Each area focuses on a different piece of early childhood education knowledge and skill. Training programs — including those at ChildCareEd — align to these standards so you can apply your learning directly to your CDA application.
1. Planning a Safe and Healthy Learning Environment
This subject area covers:
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Creating spaces for children that promote safety and health.
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Preventing injuries and managing risks.
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Hygiene, sanitation practices, and healthy routines.
Educators learn how the physical environment influences children’s ability to explore, play, and grow.
2. Advancing Children’s Physical and Intellectual Development
This area focuses on how children develop physically and cognitively.
Key topics include:
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Supporting gross and fine motor skills,
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Encouraging early literacy and mathematical reasoning,
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Planning activities that nurture thinking and creative problem-solving.
Intentional activities help children build confidence, curiosity, and readiness for lifelong learning.
3. Supporting Children’s Social and Emotional Development
Children’s emotional well-being is just as important as academics.
This area teaches educators how to:
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Encourage positive self-esteem,
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Support peer relationships and emotional regulation,
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Provide predictable routines and respectful interactions.
Skills learned here help educators model #empathy and guide children through emotional challenges.
4. Building Productive Relationships with Families
Families are a child’s first teachers. This subject area emphasizes:
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Effective communication with #parents and caregivers,
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Engaging families in the learning process,
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Understanding family dynamics and cultural differences.
Strong partnerships with families lead to better outcomes for children and enhance trust between home and school.
5. Managing an Effective Program Operation
Educators also need organizational and leadership skills.
Topics include:
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Program planning and daily routines,
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Record keeping and documentation,
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Understanding community resources and referrals.
This subject helps you run programs that are structured, accountable, and responsive.
6. Maintaining a Commitment to Professionalism
Professionalism means continuous growth.
This area covers:
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Ethical conduct and professional standards,
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Reflective practice and ongoing learning,
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Advocacy for children and the profession.
This subject reminds educators to stay informed, ethical, and confident in their role.
7. Observing and Recording Children’s Behavior
Observation skills are essential for planning meaningful activities.
This subject teaches how to:
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Watch and document children’s behavior objectively,
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Use assessment to support development,
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Communicate findings with families and colleagues.
Observation helps educators tailor instruction to individual needs.
8. Understanding the Principles of Child Development and Learning
This subject area focuses on the why behind what children do.
Educators learn:
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Major theories of child development,
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Developmental milestones from birth through age five,
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How children learn best through play and interaction.
This foundation strengthens every other subject area.
Training Options from ChildCareEd
If you’re in Michigan and planning your CDA journey, ChildCareEd offers flexible online training aligned with all CDA subject areas. Their training is convenient, self-paced, and mobile-friendly (so you can learn when it fits your schedule).
👉 Take a CDA training with ChildCareEd:
ChildCareEd Courses approved in Michigan
Helpful Resources for Your CDA Journey
Here are more resources you can use:
👉 CDA Resource on building your credential (tips and guidance):
👉 ChildCareEd article about CDA trainings launched (overview of subject area trainings):
Stay Connected for Support and Updates
Professional growth doesn’t end once you earn your CDA. Follow ChildCareEd on social media for updates, tips, training announcements, and community support.
Conclusion
Understanding the CDA subject areas helps you build knowledge and confidence as an early childhood professional. In Michigan, CDA training supports your #career growth and helps you meet licensing and professional development expectations. By breaking the credential requirements into these clear subject areas, you’ll be better prepared to support the children and families in your care.
If you’re ready to start or continue your CDA training, explore the ChildCareEd training programs and tools listed above. They can help you earn your credential while learning practical skills you’ll use every day.
