$800
How Do I Become a Certified School-Age Child Care Teacher in Maryland?
Do you enjoy mentoring children, creating fun and educational activities, and want to support learning beyond the classroom for ages 5–13? Then you're ready for the next step.
The Maryland School-Age Teacher Career Program from ChildCareEd is your MSDE-approved pathway to become a certified School-Age Teacher in licensed child care settings across the state. Whether you're supporting children before school, after school, or during holiday breaks, this program equips you to lead developmentally appropriate experiences that build social, emotional, and academic skills for elementary and middle school-aged children. You’ll receive the training, documentation, and guidance necessary to meet COMAR 13A.16.06 regulations and begin working confidently in a professional setting. Whether you're entering the child care field or expanding your credentials, this program ensures you're fully prepared to engage and inspire Maryland’s growing minds.
Additional Requirements for Certification:
- Be at least 19 years old.
- Hold a high school diploma, equivalent, or college coursework.
- Have 1 year of experience in a licensed or approved early childhood or school-age care setting.
Start your journey to a fulfilling career that supports children during their most influential school years. Enroll now to become a certified School-Age Child Care Teacher in Maryland—and lead the way in helping kids learn, grow, and thrive outside the classroom.
- 45 hour Growth and Development Birth-age 12 ONLINE
- 45-Hour School Age Curriculum
- Basic Health & Safety and Breastfeeding Awareness
- Including All Children and the Americans with Disabilities Act
- 9 Hour Communication Course
$300
How Do I Become an Assistant Teacher in a Maryland School-Age Child Care Program?
Do you enjoy working with school-aged children, want to be part of a team that nurtures learning beyond the classroom, and are ready to step into a rewarding educational role? Then you're ready for the next step.
The Maryland Assistant Teacher – School-Age Program Career Pathway from ChildCareEd offers the training, tools, and guidance you need to qualify as an Assistant Teacher in a licensed Maryland child care setting serving children ages 5 to 13. This MSDE-approved program provides foundational training in child development, behavior management, safety, and enrichment programming—all aligned with COMAR regulations and built to help you succeed in supporting children's growth during afterschool hours, school holidays, and breaks. Whether you're just entering the early childhood field or expanding your current role, this program empowers you to support certified teachers with skill, confidence, and care.
Additional Requirements for Maryland Assistant Teacher Qualification:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Hold a high school diploma or college coursework documentation.
- Have 400 hours of experience working with school-aged children in a licensed child care setting.
- Complete 6 clock hours of continued training every year.
Take the first step toward a meaningful career in child care. Enroll now in the Maryland Assistant Teacher – School-Age Program Career Pathway and become the dependable, knowledgeable support every classroom needs.
- 45-Hour School Age Curriculum
- 3 Hour Aide Orientation
- 9 Hour Communication Course
$500
How to Become a Licensed Family Child Care Provider in Maryland?
Do you have a passion for nurturing young children, a home you'd love to transform into a licensed child care space, and the drive to start your own business? Then you're ready for the next step.
The Maryland Family Child Care Provider Career Program from ChildCareEd empowers you to launch your licensed child care business from the comfort of your own home—with confidence, clarity, and compliance. This all-in-one career program gives you everything you need to meet Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) requirements, fulfilling COMAR 13A.15.06 and 13A.15.02 training regulations. Whether you're brand new to early childhood education or shifting from a center-based role to in-home care, this program is your guided path to professional child care success.
Additional Requirements to Start Your Journey:
- Must be 18 years or older
- Must live in the home where care will be provided
- Attend a state-approved orientation session
- Complete Medication Administration Training
- Submit criminal background checks and abuse/neglect registry forms
- Provide home compliance documentation and evaluations for all residents
Continued Training After Registration:
- First Year: 18 clock hours of continued training
- Every Year After: 12 clock hours (minimum 6 COK hours, 6 elective hours)
Take the first step toward becoming your own boss and making a difference in children’s lives every day. Enroll now and unlock the training, certifications, and expert guidance you need to become a trusted Family Child Care Provider in Maryland!
- 24 Hour Family Child Care Pre-Service Training ONLINE
- Emergency and Disaster Preparedness- Online
- SIDS: Saving Babies: A Change of Position, A Change in Tradition
- Pediatric In-Person First Aid & CPR/AED Adult, Child, Infant
- Basic Health & Safety and Breastfeeding Awareness
- Including All Children and the Americans with Disabilities Act
ChildCareEd is a valuable resource for individuals aspiring to complete their Child Development Associates (CDA) in the field of early childhood education. However, pursuing a CDA can be a costly endeavor. In this article, we will explore how to get a CDA for #free or at a reduced cost through grant opportunities and local funding sources. We'll also touch on ChildCareEd's subscription-based model, which, while not entirely free, offers a one-time fee option for access to their resources.
CDA Council Scholarships Page
State-Specific Listings: One of the most notable features of the CDA Scholarships Page is its state-specific scholarship listings. By selecting their state of residence, students can instantly access information on scholarships available in their region. This ensures that scholarship seekers can find opportunities that are most relevant to them.
Links to More Information: The CDA Scholarships Page goes beyond just listing scholarships. It provides links to additional information about each scholarship, allowing students to delve deeper into the application requirements, deadlines, eligibility criteria, and more. This comprehensive approach empowers students to make informed decisions about which scholarships to pursue.

ChildCareEd Grant Availability
ChildCareEd understands the financial burden of pursuing a CDA and has compiled a list of potential grant opportunities to help individuals offset these costs. ChildCareEd directs users to information on available grants. This is a great starting point for those seeking financial assistance for their CDA journey.

Local Grants and Funding Sources
Maryland CDA Training Initiative
TTT ECE Apprenticeship program
The TTT ECE Apprenticeship Program is a shining example of an initiative dedicated to nurturing and developing the next generation of early childhood educators. With a focus on apprenticeship-style learning, this program provides hands-on training and educational support, ensuring that educators are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their roles.
The Maryland Rebuilds Grant has emerged as a catalyst for change in the field of early childhood education. It recognizes the importance of investing in quality education for young children and aims to remove the financial barriers that often deter individuals from pursuing a CDA credential.
ChildCareEd is proud to partner with the TTT ECE Apprenticeship Program to provide the 120-clock hour course work for CDA Credential. Free CDA coursework!
ChildCareEd Subscriptions
While not entirely free, ChildCareEd offers a subscription-based model for users to save money and complete required training. This single-time fee option allows users to access a wealth of CDA-related materials, coursework, and support. While this might not be a free option, it can be a cost-effective investment in your CDA journey.
Pursuing a CDA is a significant step towards a rewarding career in early childhood education. ChildCareEd recognizes the importance of making this education accessible and affordable. By exploring grant opportunities, and local funding sources like the Maryland CDA Training Initiative and TTT ECE Apprenticeship program, you can potentially reduce or even eliminate the financial barrier to obtaining a CDA. ChildCareEd's subscription-based access offers a cost-effective way to access high-quality resources and support as you work towards your CDA credential. With these options in mind, aspiring #early-childhood-educators can take confident steps toward achieving their career goals.
Obtaining a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential for free may be possible through various grants, scholarships, and programs designed to support early childhood educators. Here are steps you can take to explore free CDA options:
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Research Grants and Scholarships:
- Start by researching grants and scholarships specific to early childhood education and CDA certification. Look for both local and national opportunities.
- Consider contacting organizations, non-profits, and government agencies in your area that might offer financial support for CDA training and coursework.
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Check with Local Agencies:
- Contact your state or local Department of Education or Department of Human Services to inquire about any available grants or programs that cover the cost of CDA training.
- Reach out to local childcare associations and advocacy groups for information on grants or scholarships for aspiring early childhood educators.
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Explore Apprenticeship Programs:
- Look for apprenticeship programs in your region that provide training and support for CDA certification. Some of these programs may offer free coursework and materials.
- Check if any organizations or employers in your area sponsor apprenticeships or provide financial assistance for CDA candidates.
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Visit the CDA Council Website:
- The CDA Council's website has information on grants or scholarships available for CDA candidates. Explore their resources and contact them for guidance.
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Contact Educational Institutions:
- Reach out to local colleges, universities, and vocational schools to inquire about scholarships or financial aid options for CDA coursework.
- Some institutions may offer free or reduced-cost CDA training as part of their education programs.
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Network and Seek Recommendations:
- Connect with experienced educators in your field or join online forums and communities dedicated to early childhood education.
- Seek recommendations and insights from others who may have successfully obtained their CDA for free or at a reduced cost.
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Utilize Online Resources at ChildCareEd:
- ChildCareEd is dedicated to early childhood education and professional development. They offer free CDA resources, such as guidelines for completing the professional portfolio.
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Apply for Financial Aid:
- If you choose to pursue CDA coursework through an accredited institution, consider applying for federal financial aid programs such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Some programs may qualify for financial assistance.
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Consider Employer Support:
- If you are currently employed in a childcare facility, inquire with your employer about any support they may offer for CDA certification. Some employers provide financial assistance or reimbursement for employees seeking CDA credentials.
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Stay Informed:
- Keep an eye on early childhood education-related news and announcements, as new funding opportunities and grants may become available periodically.
Remember that the availability of free CDA opportunities can vary by location and the specific programs and grants available in your area. Be proactive in your search, and don't hesitate to reach out to organizations and institutions that can provide guidance and information on how to obtain your CDA credential for free or at a reduced cost.