The Vital Role of the CDA Credential for Virginia's Early Childhood Educators - post

Do you have a degree in a child-related field and experience working with children, but lack formal management training? Then you're ready for the next step.

This 10-hour online Program Director Management Training Bundle is tailored to meet Virginia Department of Education regulations for directors of licensed child day centers. Required for individuals who do not have prior management experience, this course fulfills the Commonwealth’s mandate for training in business and administrative leadership (as outlined in 22VAC40-185-190).

In addition to management coursework, Virginia licensing standards require all directors who supervise children to hold valid First Aid and CPR certifications. These certifications are essential for ensuring the health and safety of children in your care and are a mandatory component of preservice requirements.

Topics include:

• Budget development and financial oversight
• Human resources and staffing regulations
• Program planning, evaluation, and recordkeeping

Ideal for individuals 21+ holding a CDA, associate, bachelor's, or graduate degree in early childhood or related fields, this training bridges the gap between educational experience and administrative readiness, ensuring compliance with Virginia’s licensing standards.

Are you ready to become a lead teacher in a Virginia child care program? Do you have a high school diploma and a passion for early childhood education? Then you’re ready for the next step.

This 24-hour Lead Teacher Initial Training Bundle satisfies the preservice training requirement for Lead Teachers as mandated by Virginia licensing standards (22VAC40-185-240). Training must be completed within the first 6 months of employment and equips you with the knowledge to lead safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate classrooms.

Topics covered include:

• Child development principles
• Health and safety protocols
• Positive guidance and behavior management strategies
• Age-appropriate activity planning and implementation

This bundle prepares you to confidently lead in compliance with state regulations and provide high-quality care and learning experiences.

Are you just starting your child care career? Do you want to build foundational skills and earn recognition on Virginia’s Career Pathways? Then you're ready for the next step.

This 24-hour Level 1 Training Bundle meets the requirements for entry-level recognition in the Virginia Early Childhood Career Pathways System, a framework that supports workforce development and quality standards across early education roles.

Topics covered include:

• Fundamentals of early childhood education
• Health, safety, and supervision essentials
• Child observation and responsive interactions
• Early literacy, play, and learning environments
• Introduction to ethics and professionalism

This bundle lays the groundwork for career advancement, equipping new providers with the knowledge to begin their journey in early care and education with confidence and compliance.

Are you currently working in a Virginia child care setting? Need to fulfill your yearly training hours? Then you're ready for the next step.

This 16-hour Annual Training Bundle is designed to meet the ongoing professional development requirements outlined in Virginia child care regulations (22VAC40-185-245). It is suitable for all roles—Program Directors, Leaders, Aides, and Family Day Home Providers—who must complete a minimum number of annual training hours to maintain licensure and stay current with best practices.

Topics include:

• Child growth and development updates
• Injury prevention and safety planning
• Nutrition, health, and wellness in early childhood
• Cultural competency and inclusive practices
• Supporting children with diverse needs and behaviors

Flexible and engaging, this training bundle ensures you remain compliant while continuing to grow as a child care professional.