1. How long does it take to get my CDA?
That depends upon many factors. Think about how many hours of experience and clock hours you have already completed. This will give you an idea of how much training and experience you still need. Also, look at how many hours your training program offers per month. Your advisor or instructor can help you develop a plan for completing your CDA. Remember that you can only use clock hours that you have accumulated during the five years immediately prior to the date you submit your application.
2. What is the process I go through to get my CDA?
The bulk of your time will be spent accumulating your experience and clock hours of training. Get started on these first. Your resource file, observations, and parent questionnaires must be completed during the six months immediately prior to the date you apply. Therefore, you want to be near completion of your hours and experience when you do these. When you are finished with these, have your advisor check over them. Now you are ready to send in your application for your CDA. Within a few weeks, a CDA Representative will contact you to set up your verification visit. At this time she or he will collect your parent questionnaires and observation form and look at your resource file. You will also take your oral and written assessments during the verification visit.
3. How much does it cost?
The fee changes from time to time. The current fee, listed in the application form, is $325. The payment is mailed in with your application form. Your training program may also involve fees. Contact your training instructor for more information.
4. What hours count for the CDA?
The CDA handbook outlines the agencies and organizations that offer approved training for your clock hours. Hours taken during conferences do not count for CDA clock hours, except under certain circumstances. Remember, all clock hours must be accumulated in the five years immediately prior to the application date in order to count. Your advisor can help you organize your clock hours into the correct CDA subject areas. Make sure you receive a certificate for all training sessions you attend. Keep your certificates in order by subject area and in a safe place.
5. Are there application deadlines to meet?
There are application deadlines you must meet to have your verification visit scheduled. Verification visits are scheduled through the CDA Council on a quarterly basis. The deadlines are as follows:
First quarter: January, February, March (apply by December 1)
Second quarter: April, May, June (apply by March 1)
Third quarter: July, August, September (apply by June 1)
Fourth quarter: October, November, December (apply by September 1)
6. Can I get a packet about the CDA without taking the CDA classes?
Packets are available for $15 plus shipping ($3.50): (You must specify with type of CDA you are receiving.)
The Council for Early Childhood Professional Recognition
2460 16th Street NW
Washington, DC 20009
1-800-424-4310
7. Who is qualified to be my advisor?
A list of advisor qualifications is in the back of your CDA Standards book. If you do not know anyone who meets the qualifications, contact your training instructor for suggestions.
8. What does my advisor do?
Your advisor’s responsibility is to conduct your formal observation and to help you determine when you are ready to apply. There is, however, a lot more that your advisor can do. Your advisor should be familiar enough with the CDA to help you through the process, answer your questions, and provide you with support. He or she can look over your resource file and do practice observations or practice assessments to prepare you for your verification visit. Ask your advisor for whatever help you need.
9. Are all CDA’s the same?
The CDA National Credentialing Program offers specialization in three specified areas: infant/toddler setting, preschool setting, and family child care setting. You will need to decide which specialization best suits your present setting and your career goals.
10. Why should I get my CDA?
You will be nationally recognized as an early childhood professional who is
an educated and skilled caregiver for young children. The CDA qualifies you for certain positions in many
state-licensed centers and Head Start Programs. It gives you an advantage when seeking employment and/or higher compensation. Because the CDA is a national credential, it is recognized all across the United States. This will be helpful in seeking employment if you should relocate. The CDA documents that you’ve had a variety of well-rounded training, have been observed as a lead caregiver, and have demonstrated your competency to provide quality care for children.
|
