CDA Home Visitor RC III: Bibliography of Developmentally Appropriate Children’s Books - post

The Resource Collection (RC) III is an essential part of the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential for Home Visitors. This section requires candidates to compile a bibliography of 10 #developmentally appropriate children’s #books. These books are used to support children’s development and help families address key topics, such as cultural and linguistic group identity, gender identity, children with special needs, family structures, everyday activities, and other relevant themes.

By curating a thoughtful collection of books, CDA candidates demonstrate their ability to use literature as a tool to foster meaningful learning experiences for children and families.

Purpose of RC III

RC III allows CDA candidates to:

• Encourage family #engagement through storytelling and shared reading.
• Address diverse topics that resonate with children’s experiences and challenges.
• Provide resources that are developmentally appropriate, inclusive, and culturally relevant.

Each book in the bibliography must include the title, author, publisher, copyright date, and a brief summary, along with the topics it addresses.

Examples of Books for RC III

Here are two examples of books that can be included in your RC III bibliography:

Example 1: Last Stop on Market Street

• Author: Matt de la Peña
• Publisher: G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers
• Copyright Date: 2015
• Summary: This heartwarming story follows CJ and his grandmother as they take a bus ride through a diverse city. Along the way, CJ learns to see beauty in the world around him and appreciate the differences in people’s lives. The book promotes #cultural-awareness, gratitude, and #empathy.
• Subject Addressed: Cultural and linguistic group identity

Why It Works for RC III:
This book encourages families to celebrate diversity and introduces children to the idea of seeing value in all walks of life. It is an excellent resource for teaching inclusion and acceptance in everyday interactions.

Example 2: Two Homes

• Author: Claire Masurel
• Publisher: Candlewick Press
• Copyright Date: 2001
• Summary: Alex has two #homes, one with his mom and one with his dad. Through simple #language and vivid illustrations, the book reassures children of divorced or separated #parents that they are loved and supported in both homes.
• Subject Addressed: Separation/Divorce/Remarriage/Family Structures

Why It Works for RC III:
This book is particularly valuable for families navigating changes in their structure. It helps children feel secure and understand that family love remains constant despite physical separation.

Tips for Choosing Books for RC III

• Developmentally Appropriate: Ensure the books are suitable for the children’s age group, with engaging illustrations and simple, clear language.
• Inclusive: Select books that reflect diverse family dynamics, #cultures, and abilities.
• Relatable: Choose topics that address real-life situations families may face, such as routines, disabilities, or changes in family structures.
• Encourage Family Engagement: Look for books that encourage discussions between parents and children, fostering emotional connections.

How to Use the RC III Bibliography

As a Home Visitor, these books become tools to:

• Enhance Parent-Child Relationships: Encourage parents to read with their children and discuss the stories together.
• Promote Child Development: Use books to address key #developmental-milestones, such as language and emotional regulation.
• Foster Understanding and Empathy: Introduce children to diverse perspectives and experiences.

RC III is a meaningful opportunity for CDA candidates to demonstrate how literature can support children and families in their development. By curating a thoughtful selection of books like Last Stop on Market Street and Two Homes, Home Visitors can help families navigate important topics while fostering a love of reading. This resource collection not only showcases the candidate’s understanding of #developmentally-appropriate-practices but also equips families with valuable tools to #nurture their children’s #growth.