CDA FAQ | JCTC

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    Program Contact

    Susan Allen

    Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education Program

    Program Coordinator

    (502) 213-2671

    susan.allen@kctcs.edu

    CDA Commonly asked questions

    The Child Development Associate (CDA) is a competency-based national credential awarded to individuals who work with children ages five (5) and under.

    Apply for Admission

    Find out more information on the Assessment Center web page.

    IEC 101 Orientation to Early Childhood Education

    IEC 102 Foundations of Early Childhood Education

    One of the following IEC courses:

    • IEC 130 Early Childhood Development
    • IEC 180 Approaches to Early Childhood Education Curriculum
    • IEC 200 Guidance of Young Children

    This is my first semester & I only want to take one course. Which course should I take?

    No. The coursework is one component of achieving your CDA. The Council for Special Recognition requires that you complete a total of 120 training hours in Early Childhood Education.

    Each 3-credit college course is worth 40 training hours. In these classes you will complete the following:

    • 120 hours of training in Early Childhood Education
    • Your Professional Portfolio
    • A Resource File
    • Field Advisor assessment (may be completed while you are taking classes or after you have completed your classes).
    • Preparation for the oral & written exam.
    • Parent Questionnaires
    • 480 hours of working with young children in an early childhood setting

    Council for Special Recognition
    2460 16th Street, NW
    Washington, DC 20009-3575
    (800) 424-4310

    • To complete the application, visit CDA online, click on Login under the heading your CDA.
    • You will submit your completed CDA application, verification that you have completed all 120 training hours (copy of college transcript), and a check for $425 to the Council for Professional Recognition in Washington, DC.
    • To apply for a mini-grant to cover the cost of $425, please contact one of the counselors below.

    Contact Information for the Professional Development Counselors with The Stars For Kids Now Scholarship Program:

    • Susan Bowles: (502) 213-2611

    The CDA Credential is valid for 3 years from the date of the award, and can be renewed for 5-year periods.

    Renewal of the CDA Credential includes the following:

    • First Aid Certificate
    • 4.5 Continuing Education Units, or a 3-credit college course
    • A minimum of 80 hours work experience with young children (within the year)
    • Letter of recommendation from an Early Childhood Education Professional
    • Membership in a national or local early childhood professional organization (within the year)

    Jefferson offers a complete Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education Program leading to an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree.

    For more information contact: