How to Achieve Your CDA

The Child Development Associate^® (CDA) Credential™ is a nationally recognized credential earned by those working in the early care and education field. The CDA credential is based on a core set of competency standards and includes an assessment process by:

Council for Professional Recognition
2460 16th St. NW
Washington, DC 20009
(800) 424-4310
www.cdacouncil.org

The CDA credential, a recognized part of child care regulations in Iowa, is a way to earn points on Iowa's Quality Rating and Improvement System and is part of achieving some accreditation standards.

Child Development Associate National Credentialing Program

Initial Steps in Preparing for CDA

High school diploma or equivalent
Professional Education – 120 clock hours, including 10 hours in each of the 8 CDA subject areas
Work experience – 480 hours in targeted age setting for CDA credential earning
Order Competency Standards book for appropriate setting (Infant-Toddler, Preschool, or Family Child Care) - see ordering link below
Family Questionnaires
Professional Portfolio

Benefits of CDA

Demonstrates competence in the early childhood field
Enhances skills with young children
Nationally recognized credential
Increases career opportunities
Recognized by Iowa for quality initiatives like the IQ4K^® and IQPPS
Recommended by Head Start, National Association of the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC)
Can be transferred for college credit at many of Iowa’s community colleges
Increases your confidence!