A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential is a nationally recognized, competency-
based credential designed for early childhood educators working with young children from birth
through age five. Awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition, the CDA validates that
an educator has the knowledge, skills, and professional practices necessary to provide high-
quality, developmentally appropriate care and education.
Unlike a traditional academic degree, the CDA focuses on real-world application. Educators
demonstrate competency through coursework, on-the-job experience, observation, and
professional reflection. The credential emphasizes best practices in child development, safety,
guidance, learning environments, and family engagement
Prepares early childhood educators to support the growth and development of young children from infancy through preschool. It focuses on developmentally appropriate practices, health and safety, positive guidance, family engagement, and the creation of a nurturing learning environments. Earning a CDA demonstrates an educator’s commitment to quality care, professionalism, and effective teaching practices across all early childhood age groups
The CDA is more than a credential—it is a professional standard that promotes consistent, high-quality care across early learning settings. By combining education, experience, observation, and reflection, the CDA ensures educators are prepared to meet the developmental needs of young children while growing as professionals. For teachers, the CDA builds skills, confidence, and career momentum. For programs, it strengthens quality, compliance, and outcomes. For children, it means learning in environments led by knowledgeable, responsive, and committed educators.
The Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential is a nationally recognized credential that demonstrates an educator’s competency in early childhood education. It is issued by the Council for Professional Recognition and is widely accepted in childcare and early learning settings.
Yes. All of our CDA programs meet the required 120 hours of professional education, covering all 8 CDA competency topic areas required for certification.
Our CDA programs are broken into 10 levels to help prevent overwhelm and support steady, meaningful learning. Each level builds on the previous one to support understanding, application, and confidence.
Yes. We provide official transcripts that show completed courses and hours, which can be used for portfolio, employer documentation or recordkeeping.
Yes. Our final course includes guidance and resources to help you locate a qualified local observer who can complete your required CDA verification visit.
Yes. We provide links and instructions to help you locate an approved testing site and schedule your CDA exam.
Yes. Our CDA programs are 100% online and self-paced, allowing you to complete coursework on a schedule that works for you.
Completion time varies by learner. Some students finish in a few months, while others take longer, depending on work schedules, experience, and availability. You can move through the levels at your own pace.
No. The CDA application and exam fees are paid directly to the Council for Professional Recognition and are not included in the cost of the coursework.
Yes. The CDA Credential is nationally recognized. However, acceptance of training hours may vary by employer or state registry, so we recommend confirming with your local agency if needed.
Yes. Our CDA programs are designed for both new and experienced educators, with clear explanations, practical examples, and manageable learning levels.
No. We do not offer refunds for CDA programs once purchased.
Empowering parents and educators with expert-led child development courses
