Embark on a journey of discovery with our Infant-Toddler CDA Credential Training! This 120-hour program will take you through the rewarding experience of supporting the growth and development of our youngest learners, ages birth to 36 months, in a center-based environment.
Our training is designed to help you earn the Infant-Toddler CDA Credential, a highly regarded certification in early childhood education (ECE). The Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential™ is the most recognized credential in ECE and a valuable stepping stone for advancing your career.
During this 120-hour course, you'll receive over 10 hours of training in key areas required for the CDA professional early childhood credential:
- Creating a safe and healthy learning environment
- Promoting children's physical and intellectual development
- Fostering children's social and emotional growth
- Building strong relationships with families
- Running an effective program
- Upholding professionalism in your role
- Observing and documenting children's behavior
- Understanding key principles of child development and learning
Additionally, you'll gain access to CDA Professional Portfolio Review resources provided by certified CDA PD Specialists to guide you through the certification process.
Steps to Earn Your CDA:
What You'll Need to Apply:
- Complete the 120-hour Infant-Toddler CDA Credential training with H&H Child Care Training.
- An official document verifying you are a high school junior or senior enrolled in an ECE program, or that you have a high school diploma or GED.
- 480 clock hours of hands-on experience with children within the three years prior to your application.
Next Steps: Once your prerequisites and coursework are complete, you'll need to purchase the $25 CDA Competency Standards Book from the Council for Professional Recognition (http://www.cdacouncil.org). This book will guide you through the application process and help you prepare the following:
- Professional Portfolio – A compilation of resources to demonstrate your expertise.
- Reflective Statements of Competence – Evaluations based on the materials in your portfolio.
- Professional Philosophy Statement – A summary of your educational philosophy and learnings.
- Family Questionnaires – Completed by families of the children you work with, assessing your strengths and areas for improvement.
Final Steps:
- Apply for your CDA online via YourCouncil (https://yourcouncil.org/cfprssa/ssaauthmain.login_page) and pay a $425 application fee, or submit a paper application from the CDA Competency Standards book with a $500 fee.
- Select a CDA Professional Development (PD) Specialist from the Council's directory to observe your work with children as part of the certification process.
- Once approved, schedule your CDA Exam through Pearson VUE, using your Candidate ID number. Testing is available on a first-come, first-served basis online or by calling 1-866-507-5627 between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. CST, Monday through Friday.
Take the first step toward advancing your career in early childhood education with the Infant-Toddler CDA Credential today!