Child Development Associate (C.D.A) Preparation, C.T.C.

The Certificate program in Child Development meets the training needs required for certification to work in child care centers.  The standards for this training are nationally developed and recognized.  The Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential is the most widely recognized credential in early childhood education and is a key stepping stone on the path of career advancement in childcare.  Successful completion of the program prepares students for the assessment exam required for the Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential.  It also prepares students for employment in child care centers or in family home child care settings working with infants, toddlers, or preschoolers.  Skills from the 13 functional areas required by the National Council for Early Childhood Professional Recognition are recognized. 

Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of the Child Development Associate (CDA) Preparation Career and Technical Certificate program, the learner will be able to:

• Create developmentally appropriate learning activities (SLO #1)
• Explain how to build family and community relationships (SLO #2)
• Demonstrate how to observe, document, and assess in order to support young children and families (SLO #3)
• Demonstrate skills in teaching and analyze young children’s learning (SLO #4)
• Exhibit professionalism in the field of early childhood (SLO #5)
• Maintain a portfolio to demonstrate professional philosophy and best practices as an early childhood teacher (SLO #6)