Purpose
The CDA Certificate program is designed to improve the skills of preschool teachers and other childcare workers who want to learn the basic principles of early childhood education and obtain a Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) through the Council for Professional Recognition.
Program Description
The CDA Certificate program includes training in 6 competencies and 13 functional areas as defined by the National CDA Council for Professional Recognition. Students will gain an understanding of child development from birth through age 5, and develop skills for planning and implementing activities in early childhood program settings. A CDA credential is worth up to 6 credits upon matriculation to a degree program (AAS Early Childhood Education or AA Elementary Education) at Montgomery County Community College. Classes usually meet one night per week, and one Saturday per month, for approximately 30 weeks.
Primary Goals
Preschool teachers and other childcare workers will learn the basic principles of early childhood education and obtain a Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) through the Council for Professional Recognition.
Consideration for Industry Certification
Upon successful application, CDA Credential from the National CDA Council for Professional Recognition is awarded.
Curriculum
Child Development Associate (CDA)
PREREQUISITE: In order to enroll in the CDA program students must be 18 years of age and have a high school or GED diploma. Students are required to have completed at least 480 hours of employment in a licensed childcare facility.
Recognition of Completion: Successful completion will consist of attendance in the 120 hours of instruction, satisfactory completion of assignments, quizzes, and exams and satisfactory completion of the observation/assessment component and passing the National CDA assessment. Students are required to have completed at least 480 hours of employment in a licensed childcare facility. A letter and certification of completion will be issued to students who successfully complete the program so students can apply to the Council of Early Childhood Professional Recognition for their CDA credential.
