The Lead Teacher Leap: How a CDA Unlocks Higher Pay and More Responsibility. - post

Why the CDA is Your Ticket to Success?

Becoming a lead teacher is a big step. It means you are ready to take charge of a classroom. You are ready to lead other teachers. Most of all, you are ready to help children learn in the best way.

One of the best ways to reach this goal is to earn your Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential. It is a special certificate that shows you know how to care for children and help them grow. In 2026, more schools and #centers are looking for teachers who have this certificate.

What is a Lead Teacher? 

A lead teacher is the person in charge of a classroom. While an assistant teacher helps with daily tasks, the lead teacher makes the #plans. They decide what the children will learn each day. They also talk to #parents about how their children are doing.

When you become a lead teacher, you have more responsibility. This means people trust you to make good choices. Because you have more work and more skills, you also get higher pay. In many states, having a CDA can help you earn much more money each year.

How does a CDA help you earn more money?

Many childcare centers have different "levels" for teachers. A teacher with no certificate might start at Level 1. A teacher with a CDA might start at Level 2 or 3.

• Higher starting pay: Many centers pay CDA holders more per hour from the first day.
• Bonus opportunities: Some states give special "stipends" or extra money to teachers who finish their CDA.
• Better jobs: Programs like Head Start often require a CDA. These programs usually pay better than centers that do not require it.

Using your CDA to move up is a smart way to grow your #CareerGrowth. You are investing in yourself!

Why do you get more responsibility with a CDA?

Having a CDA tells your boss that you are a professional. It shows you have finished 120 hours of training and have worked at least 480 hours with children. Because of this, you will be allowed to do more important things:

1. Plan the Curriculum: You will choose the stories, games, and art projects for the class.
2. Mentor Others: You might help new teachers learn how to work with children.
3. Lead Parent Meetings: You will be the main person who talks to families.
4. Manage the Classroom: You will make sure the room is #safe and follows all the rules.  

Is the CDA hard to get?

The process takes time, but it is broken down into simple steps. You need to learn about eight important areas. These include things like health, safety, and how children's brains work.

To help you get started, you can take classes online. Here are some great options from ChildCareEd: 

• CDA Preschool Credential with Portfolio Review: This course gives you all the training hours you need for a preschool setting.

• CDA Infant/Toddler Credential with Portfolio Review: This is perfect if you love working with babies and toddlers.

• CDA Preschool Renewal: If you already have a CDA, use this to keep it active.

Can a CDA help you go to college?

Yes! This is one of the best secrets about the CDA. Many colleges will give you "credits" for your CDA. This means you might not have to take some beginner classes. It makes getting an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree faster and cheaper. This is a great way to keep your #ProfessionalDevelopment moving forward.

What are the steps to get your CDA?

Getting your CDA is like following a map. You just need to take one step at a time:

• Step 1: Complete 120 hours of #CDA training.
• Step 2: Work 480 hours with children.
• Step 3: Make a Professional Portfolio (a folder of your work).
• Step 4: Have a professional visit your classroom to watch you teach.
• Step #5: Take a final #exam.

If you want to see exactly what you need, check out this CDA Resource Guide. It lists everything you need to do. 

How do I stay excited about my #career?

Working with children is wonderful, but it can be hard work. Learning new things keeps your job exciting. When you learn a new way to help a child who is upset, or a new way to teach math through play, you feel more confident.

You can read more about how to grow in this article: Elevate your career and future with CDA Credential in 2026.

Join our community!

You do not have to do this alone. There are thousands of other teachers going through the same journey. We share tips, ideas, and fun #classroom-activities every day on our social media.

Follow us on Instagram

 @childcareed! We post videos and photos to help you stay motivated. Come say hello and join the conversation!

Your future as a Lead Teacher

The "Lead Teacher Leap" is waiting for you. By earning your CDA, you are showing the world that you are an expert in #early-childhood. You will earn more, lead more, and make a bigger difference in the lives of children.