Unlock Your Potential: Step-by-Step to Your CDA in Colorado

If you're working in #early-childhood education in Colorado—or thinking about entering the field—earning your Child Development Associate (CDA) credential is one of the smartest moves you can make for your #career. Not only does a CDA show you're serious about providing high-quality care, but it also opens doors to better job opportunities, higher pay, and pathways to long-term professional #growth.

At cdacertification.com, we make it easy for Colorado #educators to start and complete their CDA training online. Here's everything you need to know to get started.

Why the CDA Credential Matters in Colorado

Colorado is committed to raising the quality of child care and #early-learning through workforce #development and professional recognition. Programs like Colorado Shines, PDIS (Professional Development Information System), and T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® Colorado Scholarship Program highlight the state’s dedication to quality care and qualified educators.

A CDA credential helps you:

• Meet #staff-qualifications in licensed centers and Head Start programs

• Access financial incentives through local and statewide scholarship programs

• Gain recognition as a highly skilled, trained professional

Steps to Earning Your CDA in Colorado

Whether you're new to early childhood or a seasoned educator looking to boost your credentials, the path to earning your CDA is straightforward—and we’re here to help every step of the way.

Choose the Right CDA Setting

There are four types of CDA credentials, depending on your current work setting:

• Preschool (ages 3–5)

• Infant-Toddler (birth–3)

• Family Child Care

• Home Visitor

Complete 120 Hours of Formal Education

You’ll need 120 hours of training aligned with the CDA Competency Standards and the state of Colorado’s expectations.

✅ At cdacertification.com, we offer fully online, self-paced CDA training designed to meet the requirements of the Council for Professional Recognition and align with Colorado’s workforce development goals.

Explore our course offerings:

• CDA Training Course for Infant-Toddler

• CDA Training Course for Preschool

• CDA Training Course for Family Child Care

Each course includes step-by-step guidance for building your Professional Portfolio and preparing for the CDA Exam and Verification Visit.

Gain 480 Hours of Work Experience

Colorado CDA candidates must complete 480 hours of work experience in a licensed early childhood setting that matches the credential type you're pursuing.

Prepare Your CDA Portfolio and Family Questionnaires

This is where you show off your knowledge and growth as an early educator. Our courses guide you through building a professional portfolio and collecting required parent feedback.

Apply for the CDA Exam and Verification Visit

Once you’ve completed your training and portfolio, apply to the Council for Professional Recognition to take your exam and schedule your Verification Visit.

Colorado Resources to Support Your CDA Journey

Good news! Colorado offers additional resources to help educators like you succeed:

• T.E.A.C.H. Colorado Scholarships: Financial assistance for CDA training, renewals, and college credit.

• PDR System (PDIS): Track your training and professional development statewide.

• Colorado Shines Quality Rating: Earning a CDA helps centers boost their quality ratings.

Start Your CDA Journey with CDAcertification.com

We’re proud to support Colorado’s #early-childhood-educators with flexible, affordable online CDA training. With courses tailored for each CDA setting, expert support, and guidance through every milestone, cdacertification.com is your trusted partner on the path to certification.

🎓 Ready to get started?
👉 Browse Our CDA Courses

Build a brighter future for yourself—and the children you serve. Start your CDA journey in Colorado today!