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CDA Council Process
Not sure what the Council requires after you complete your CDA coursework? We explain the exam-first timeline, how to schedule the CDA Exam, what happens during the Verification Visit, and what to ... Read more
Free
License: CCBY
PDF
CDA Next Steps Tracker
Finished your CDA training or portfolio and not sure what comes next? This guide walks you through the next steps from confirming requirements and submitting your application to scheduling your exa... Read more
Free
License: CCBY
PDF
How to Get Your CDA for Free
Find ways to earn your CDA at low or no cost using state scholarships, workforce funding , Head Start support, or employer reimbursement. Use the state-by-state links to locate programs that may co... Read more
Free
License: CCBY
PDF
CDA Cost Checklist
This cost checklist breaks down the most common CDA expenses and helps you estimate what you’ll pay out of pocket—so you can target scholarships, workforce funding, or employer reimbursement.
... Read more
Free
License: CCBY
PDF
Common Daycare Scenarios: What to Say & Do
A practical guide to responding to common daycare behavior concerns with positive discipline. Includes what to say, what to do in the moment, and follow-up teaching steps to support safety, consist... Read more
Free
License: CCBY
PDF
Family Communication Note
A Family Communication Note provides a brief, structured summary of a child’s day, including observations, support strategies used, and any follow-up needed. Regular use supports transparency and... Read more
Free
License: CCBY
PDF
Mini Behavior Support Plan
A Mini Behavior Support Plan is a one-page tool that helps staff respond consistently to a specific challenging behavior by outlining triggers, prevention strategies, replacement skills to teach, a... Read more
Free
License: CCBY
PDF
Updated Checklist for Earning Your CDA Credential
The updated checklist for earning your CDA credential clearly outlines each step from completing required coursework and supervised experience to assembling your professional portfolio and referenc... Read more
Free
License: CC0/PUBLIC DOMAIN
PDF
Calm and Focus Time
Goal: To help children regulate emotions, stay calm, and feel #safe during #emergency situations.
Free
License: CCBY
PDF
Peace Corner
To help children #develop self-regulation, emotional #awareness, and conflict resolution skills through a calm, child-centered environment.
Free
License: CCBY
PDF
Story Stones Adventure
Learning Objectives
Foster oral #language- #development and expressive communication
Support sequencing and logical thinking
Encourage independence, collaboration, and creativity
... Read more
Free
License: CCBY
PDF
Story Stones Adventure
Foster oral #language- #development and expressive communication. Support sequencing and logical thinking. Encourage independence collaboration, and creativity. Integrate #sensory and hands-on e... Read more
Free
License: CCBY
PDF
Practical Life—Pouring with Purpose
To help children #develop fine motor coordination, concentration, independence, and confidence through a practical life exercise that embodies Montessori principles of order, control of movement, ... Read more
Free
License: CCBY
PDF
Tiny Scientists Nature Investigation Tray
Foster scientific inquiry by giving children the tools to explore, observe, and describe natural materials.
Free
License: CCBY
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Discovering Sensitive Periods Through Play
To help childcare providers identify and understand children’s sensitive periods by observing #developmental cues through a #playful, interactive simulation.
Free
License: CCBY
PDF
Pumpkin Seed Exploration & Sink or Float Lab
This hands-on science + #sensory activity is perfect for October, combining sensory investigation, scientific thinking, and seasonal fun.
Free
License: CCBY
PDF
A Practical Guide for Montessori Teachers
Burnout often arises when a #teacher’s care for children exceeds their care for themselves. In Montessori environments—where emotional presence, observation, and prepared environments demand c... Read more
Free
License: CCBY
PDF
Curiosity Kit
Want to keep your little explorer engaged while traveling? Create a Montessori-inspired Curiosity Kit! This small travel pack turns downtime into discovery time — perfect for road trips, flights,... Read more
Free
License: CCBY
PDF
The Imagination Basket
Encourage creativity and open-ended #play using simple household or #classroom materials.
Free
License: CCBY
PDF
Observation Reflection Jar
Strengthen observation and awareness of how children reveal their needs through action.
Free
License: CCBY
PDF
Morning Message Card Exchange
Ease drop-off transitions, strengthen #parent-child- #teacher connection, and model positive communication.
Free
License: CCBY
PDF
Language Treasure Hunt
Help children build bilingual vocabulary, notice connections between #languages, and celebrate Spanish heritage in a #playful way.
Free
License: CCBY
PDF
FAQ: Parents Ask Montessori Teachers
Frequently Asked Questions Parents Ask Montessori Teachers #teachers #parents
Free
License: CCBY
PDF
Feelings & Fuel Jar
Purpose: To help children (or #educators in training) recognize how #health (fuel) and emotions (feelings) affect their ability to learn and focus.
Free
License: CCBY
