What is a CDA Credential?
The Child Development Associate Credential®, commonly called the CDA, is a nationally recognized early childhood credential awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition. Earning a CDA shows that an early childhood educator has the knowledge, training, and experience needed to support children’s growth, learning, development, and safety.
A CDA is often one of the first major career steps for child care teachers, family child care providers, home visitors, and early childhood professionals who want to grow in the field.
Choose Your CDA Setting and Training
Select the CDA credential that matches your work setting and the age group you serve. Options include with or without professional portfolio support.
CDA Renewal Training
Already have your CDA Credential? ChildCareEd also offers 45-hour CDA renewal trainings for Infant/Toddler, Preschool, and Family Child Care educators. CDA renewal trainings help educators complete professional development hours needed to keep their CDA Credential current.
Maryland CDA Bridge Bundle
The CDA Bridge Bundles are self-paced online trainings for Maryland child care providers who already hold a 90-hour certification (including the 45-hour Growth & Development and 45-hour Curriculum trainings) and need the final 30 hours to complete the CDA training requirement.
Individual CDA Trainings
ChildCareEd’s CDA Subject Area trainings are designed for CDA candidates who need training in specific CDA Subject Areas or who prefer to complete their CDA training in smaller, flexible sections that fit their schedule.
CDA Home Visitor Training
CDA credential for caseworkers conducting home visits with families of children ages birth to 5 years.
