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Early childhood credentials and certifications can help you learn more about targeted areas within the the early childhood education field. When you have a credential or certificate, current or potential employers see you as dedicated to growing in your career. Licensing and Paths to QUALITY may also accept or require certain credentials to participate.
A CDA is the most recognized credential within the early childhood field. In some child care types, CDAs or their equivalents are required for licensing.
The process for obtaining your CDA includes these components. Visit the CDA Council’s website for more specifics.
120 clock hours of formal training in specific areas. Indiana AEYC’s T.E.A.C.H. program is a good place to start for face-to-face CDA classes. You may also choose to take classes online or complete an independent study.
A portfolio
Family questionnaires
A verification visit
An online exam
All CDA credentials are valid for three years from the date of the award. Keep all documentation for trainings and other professional development from the date you earned your credential. We suggest you start the process of renewing with the CDA Council about six months before your credential expires.
To be eligible to participate in Paths to QUALITY, certain staff must have obtained a CDA, a CDA-equivilant crediential, or higher. Different program types have different requirements:
Homes – Lead caregivers must meet requirement
Centers – 25% of Level 2 center staff and 50% of Level 3 center staff must meet requirement
VCP Ministries – Director, Level 2 program staff, and 50% of Level 3 program staff must meet requirement
CDA-equivalent credentials include:
If a professional has completed 12 college credit hours in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or Early Intervention education, this also qualifies as a CDA equivalent
