How to Earn Your Child Development Associate (CDA) in Virginia

If you’re passionate about working with young children and want to take your #career-in- #early-childhood-education to the next level, earning your Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential is a powerful step forward. In the state of Virginia, the CDA credential is not only respected—it’s often required for professionals working in child care centers, Head Start programs, and family child care settings.

Here’s everything you need to know about earning your CDA in Virginia and how CDAcertification.com can help you every step of the way.

Why Earn a CDA Credential in Virginia?

The CDA Credential, administered by the Council for Professional Recognition, is the most widely recognized credential in #early-childhood education (ECE). In Virginia, obtaining a CDA:

• Improves employment opportunities in child care and #preschool settings

• Fulfills state and federal requirements for Head Start and licensed child care providers

• Builds a strong foundation in child #development best practices

• Qualifies you for professional development programs like Virginia’s TEACH scholarship

Whether you're just starting out or already working in the field, a CDA sets you apart as a committed and qualified child care professional.

Steps to Earn Your CDA in Virginia

To earn your CDA in Virginia, you must:

1. Choose a CDA Setting: Select the setting that fits your experience—Preschool, Infant/Toddler, Family Child Care, or Home Visitor.

2. Complete 120 Hours of Formal Education: You need 120 clock hours of formal training, covering eight CDA subject areas.

3. Gain 480 Hours of Experience: You must work with children in your selected setting within the past five years.

4. Compile a Professional Portfolio: This includes reflective statements, work samples, family questionnaires, and more.

5. Apply for the CDA Exam: Submit your application to the Council for Professional Recognition and schedule your verification visit and exam.

Online CDA Training with CDAcertification.com

CDAcertification.com offers comprehensive online CDA training programs tailored for Virginia early childhood professionals. Our courses are:

• Self-paced and fully online, allowing you to study from anywhere in Virginia

• Aligned with Council for Professional Recognition requirements

• Affordable, with payment plans available

• Available for all CDA settings, including:

  • Preschool CDA Training

  • Infant & Toddler CDA Training

  • Family Child Care CDA Training

You’ll get access to all 120 training hours, step-by-step guidance for portfolio creation, and ongoing support from expert instructors.

Financial Support and Scholarships in Virginia

Virginia offers a number of funding options to support your CDA journey:

• TEACH Early Childhood Virginia: A scholarship program that covers most of your tuition, #books, and exam fees.

• Workforce Development Grants: Available through local community colleges and training providers.

• Employer Support: Many child care employers offer tuition reimbursement or CDA training as part of professional development.

Be sure to check with your employer or local child care resource and referral agency for available funding options.

Start Your CDA Journey Today

Whether you're in Richmond, Virginia Beach, Roanoke, or anywhere in between, you can take the next step in your early childhood career today. Join thousands of #educators across Virginia who have transformed their futures with the CDA credential.

Visit CDAcertification.com to explore our CDA training options and enroll in a program that’s right for you.

Ready to get started?
📚 Enroll in a CDA course today!