Working with children has always been a passion for you and you would like to turn that passion into a career. You want an opportunity to mold young minds, support children’s growth, and help each child develop socially and emotionally. You want to stand out to potential employers and have them eager to hire you. Does this sound like you? Are you wondering where to begin? A CDA credential, also known as the Child Development Associate Credential, provides early childhood educators with the highest standard of education to begin working with young children. Not only will a CDA prepare you for your work with young children, it will also catch the attention of employers looking to hire highly qualified educators.
Research shows that quality early care programs are instrumental in ensuring children reach appropriate developmental milestones. The early years of a child’s life are crucial to the development of foundational skills and emotional attachment. As a result, more and more child care centers and preschools are moving toward becoming accredited programs and provide care that is above and beyond the basic state standards. With higher standards comes the demand for educators with a higher level of education. Programs are now looking for those with a CDA credential or Bachelor’s degree. If you wish to be one of those in demand educators, the CDA credential is a great place to start. Through the CDA training program, you will gain a deep understanding of child development, health and safety standards, developmentally appropriate practices, and much more. This credential provides 120 hours of training that covers all aspects of working with young children and becoming a recognized professional in early childhood education. As this credential is the most widely known and valued credential in early childhood education, obtaining it will allow you to stand out from the crowd.