Home Visitor CDA Renewal Procedures - post

The Child Development Associate (CDA) credential renewal process is a critical step for Home Visitors who want to continue providing high-quality, evidence-based services to families and young children. The renewal process, overseen by the Council for Professional Recognition, ensures that CDA professionals remain updated on best practices and continue to #develop their skills. Here’s an overview of the renewal requirements and steps that Home Visitors must complete to maintain their credential.

Preparation Timeline

Renewal candidates should begin preparations as #early as possible, ideally starting well before the six-month window preceding their credential’s expiration. The CDA credential is valid for three years, and renewal applications can be submitted starting six months prior to the expiration date. If the credential lapses, candidates must reapply as first-time applicants.

Educational Requirements

To qualify for renewal, candidates must complete additional training in #early-childhood-education. Options for this training include:

• 4.5 Continuing Education Units (CEUs), which equates to 45 hours of instruction.
• One 3-credit college course relevant to #home visiting and child #development.
• 45 clock hours of training, which can come from various approved institutions.

Candidates may select the educational format that best suits their needs and should ensure that the training provider has recognized expertise in #early-childhood education.

Recommendation from an ECE Professional

Candidates are required to select an Early Childhood Education (ECE) professional to provide a recommendation as part of their renewal application. This reviewer must have recent knowledge of the candidate’s abilities in working with families with children from birth to five years. The reviewer could be an education coordinator, center director, or a professional with experience in early childhood education and home visiting programs. Additionally, the reviewer must meet specific educational and experience qualifications outlined by the Council.

First Aid and Pediatric CPR Certification

A current certification in both First Aid and Infant/Child (Pediatric) CPR is mandatory. This certification should come from a nationally recognized organization, such as the American Red Cross or American Heart Association. Documentation must include the training provider’s name, issue and expiration dates, and the instructor’s certification number. Importantly, online-only training courses do not meet this requirement.

Experience with Families

Within the year prior to applying for renewal, candidates must demonstrate at least 80 hours of direct experience working with families with children aged birth to five. This experience is essential to maintain a strong connection with the skills and needs specific to early childhood development in a home visiting setting. If a candidate’s regular work does not fulfill this requirement, they may choose to volunteer or engage in activities with families to meet this standard.

Membership in an ECE Professional Organization

An active membership in a national or local early childhood or adult education professional organization is required. This membership demonstrates the candidate’s commitment to continued professional #growth-and involvement in the field of early childhood education.

Application Process

Candidates can submit their renewal applications via a paper process, which includes:

• A completed application form.
• Documentation of professional education training.
• Proof of First Aid and Pediatric CPR certification.
• The recommendation form or letter from the ECE reviewer.
• Proof of membership in a professional organization.
• A $150 processing fee.

Applicants are encouraged to use the checklist provided by the Council to ensure all necessary documents are submitted.

Renewing the Home Visitor CDA credential ensures that professionals continue to meet rigorous standards in supporting the development of young children and their families. By following these renewal procedures, CDA professionals demonstrate their ongoing dedication to excellence in the early childhood education field.