Online Child Development Associate Training

Become a Certified Child Development Associate

Childcare professionals play a vital role in early childhood development. This 100% course will train you for a career in child development and help you pass the Council of Professional Recognition's CDA certification exam. Key topics include procedures and strategies for creating a safe and enriching childcare environment. 

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Job Outlook for Childcare Professionals

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the demand for childcare professionals is projected to increase by 11% through the year 2026, which is slightly faster than the average. 

The average annual salary for childcare professionals is $21,170 and $28,790 for preschool teachers. With experience in the field, wage could increase. In fact, the median annual wage for a Childcare Center Director this year is $45,790. 

Childcare Professional FAQs

WHAT IS A CHILDCARE PROFESSIONAL? 

Childcare professional ensure the welfare, health and safety of children under their care. Other common childcare job titles include: 

  • Childcare Worker 
  • Childcare Professional 
  • Daycare Worker 
  • Child Development Specialist
  • Child Development Center Assistant 

WHERE DO CHILDCARE PROFESSIONALS WORK? 

Most work is completed in childcare centers, however some roles, like in-home daycare providers, will work at their own home or their clients' homes. 

WHAT IS A CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE (CDA)? 

The CDA is a nationally-recognized credential that demonstrates a childcare professional’s skills, competencies and knowledge. According to the Council for Professional Recognition, CDAs are able to “nurture the emotional, physical, intellectual, and social development of children.” 

WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH A CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE CREDENTIAL? 

Earning a Child Development Associate credential can be a stepping stone to career advancement in the early childhood education field. Many CDAs go on to work in education as preschool or elementary school teachers. 

Course Objectives

Understand development stages for infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children

Have the ability to establish positive and productive relationships with school personnel, families and child students

Know how to effectively manage a childcare facility

Know standard procedures and strategies needed to provide a safe and enriching childcare environment

Prerequisites and Requirements

There are no specific prerequisites for taking this course. 

Curriculum

CHILDCARE & EDUCATION I 

Business aspects of childcare facilities; personnel techniques and procedures 

CHILDCARE & EDUCATION II 

Establishing positive relationships with parents and families; providing a safe and secure childcare environment 

CHILDCARE & EDUCATION III 

Development stages for infants, toddlers, and pre-school age children; effective techniques for fostering positive self esteem 

CHILDCARE & EDUCATION IV 

Early childhood academic and enrichment activities; managing behaviors, resolving conflicts 

Instructor

Darlene Lawrence  

Darlene Lawrence is an academic coach and childcare and education instructor with five years of experience. She holds a bachelor's degree in business administration and a master's degree in teaching.

Registration and Enrollment

This course is 100% online. Start anytime.

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