With clear, step-by-step guidance
Get Ready for the CDA® Credential
We help you organize your Professional Portfolio, prepare for the CDA Exam, and approach the Verification Visit with confidence. Practical guidance, materials, and checklists to help you move forward without stress.
I know that preparing for the CDA® can feel overwhelming when you don’t know where to start. That’s why my priority is for you to feel supported, clear, and confident throughout the entire process.
We will work with a clear, organized, and easy-to-follow method, using templates, checklists, and a defined structure so you can move forward with confidence at every stage: organizing your Professional Portfolio, preparing for the exam, and approaching the Verification Visit with peace of mind.
Reduce the stress with a qualified CDA® preparation program for $575.
What’s included in the preparation?
Within this program, participants will receive 45 hours of training distributed across the 8 content areas required for the CDA®. The CDA®, one of the most widely recognized credentials in the field of Early Childhood Education, provides practical tools and essential knowledge to strengthen professional performance in the classroom.
Throughout the course, participants receive guidance from certified instructors to develop their Professional Portfolio, along with support to confidently prepare for the Verification Visit with the PD Specialist and the CDA Exam. Designed by an educator for educators, this comprehensive program is intended to help you move forward with clarity, structure, and confidence at every stage of the process.
Access to:
Information
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Course program
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Study guide / review package
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Interactive worksheets
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Training videos
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Interactive review activities
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Content assessments
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Email notifications
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Progress tracking dashboard (if applicable)
Included Content / Modules
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Safe and healthy learning environment
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Physical and intellectual development
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Social and emotional development
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Relationships with families
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Effective program management
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Professionalism
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Observation and documentation
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Principles of child development and learning
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Practice exam (if applicable)
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Professional Portfolio course + portfolio review (if applicable)
Access to:
Accompaniment:
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Personalized support
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Live virtual classes
If you are looking to get your CDA
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This program covers the content areas required for the CDA® credential.
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Review the official and current requirements directly through the CDA Council (FAQ).
After completing the training, you will be able to:
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Plan a safe and healthy learning environment.
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Support physical and intellectual development in the classroom.
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Promote social and emotional development through learning and play activities.
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Build productive relationships with families.
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Manage an effective program focused on holistic development.
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Maintain a strong commitment to professionalism.
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Observe and document children’s behavior using assessment tools.
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Understand the principles of child development and learning.
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Develop the Professional Portfolio with the required documentation for the process.
About me
Hi, I’m María. I know how overwhelming it can feel to start the CDA® process when you’re balancing work, responsibilities, and limited time. That’s why I created a support method focused on organization, clarity, and steady progress. Throughout the program, I support you with templates, checklists, and progress reviews so you can confidently advance in your Professional Portfolio and feel prepared for both the exam and the Verification Visit.
Success Stories
"Thanks to Early Childhood Development Training, I was able to obtain my CDA® credential. They guided me through the portfolio, the exam, and preparation for the PD Specialist visit, always with clear and supportive guidance. Today, I can work legally in my field, and I truly feel that my professional life has taken a complete turn."
- Franliberth Fajardo
“I felt stuck and didn’t know how to complete the process. With the step-by-step guidance, I was able to finish everything and obtain my CDA®. Now I have better job opportunities and can finally grow in early childhood education.”
- Diliani Caballero
“What I value most is that I was never left on my own. The guidance was consistent and very clear. I completed the program, earned my CDA®, and now I can access better positions and continue growing as a professional.”
- Jenny Rodríguez Hurtado
“I really liked how well the program is organized—they tell you what to do at each stage and support you along the way. With the guides and support, I was able to complete the process and obtain my CDA® credential. Today, I am working in early childhood education, and the difference is clear.”
- Mabel Selles
Preguntas frecuentes
What is the CDA® credential?
The CDA® (Child Development Associate) is a professional credential recognized in early childhood education that validates your competencies to work with young children in a formal care and learning setting.
Who is the CDA® for?
It is ideal if you work—or want to work—in early childhood education and need a solid credential to improve job opportunities, support your experience, and demonstrate professional readiness.
What types of CDA® credentials are available?
Depending on where you work and the age group you serve, you may apply for different settings, such as preschool, infants/toddlers, family child care, or home visitor.
What are the basic requirements to apply for the CDA®?
In general, the Council requires training in the required content areas, recent work experience directly with children, a Professional Portfolio, and an evaluation.
How much training do I need?
Applicants must meet the training requirements established by the Council, typically 120 hours in the required content areas. Training must be relevant, verifiable, and documented.
How much work experience do I need?
Recent professional experience working with children in a setting aligned with the type of CDA® you choose is required, generally around 480 hours within a recent period.
What is the Professional Portfolio and what does it include?
The Professional Portfolio is a collection of evidence that demonstrates your competencies. It includes reflective statements, work samples, planning documents, and other materials required by the Council.
What are Family Questionnaires?
These are forms completed by families you work with. They help demonstrate your ability to communicate, collaborate, and respond to family needs within the educational environment.
What is the Verification Visit and who is the PD Specialist?
The Verification Visit is an observation visit conducted by a Professional Development (PD) Specialist, who evaluates your classroom performance and reviews your portfolio as part of the credentialing process.
What does the CDA® exam involve?
The exam assesses your theoretical knowledge of child development and pedagogical practices. It is administered through authorized testing centers and is part of the final steps to obtain the credential.
Who is Pearson VUE?
Pearson VUE is the international organization responsible for administering the CDA® exams at authorized testing centers. Exam scheduling is handled through their platform.
How long does it take for the Council to make a decision?
Response times may vary. Generally, once the evaluation is complete and all documentation is verified, the Council issues a final decision within several weeks.
How long is the CDA® credential valid and how is it renewed?
The credential is typically valid for three years and can be renewed by completing required continuing education and demonstrating updated experience in early childhood education.
How does Early Childhood Development Training support me through this process?
At Early Childhood Development Training, we guide you step by step: we help you organize your Professional Portfolio, prepare for the PD Specialist visit and the exam, and provide materials, tutoring, and personalized guidance so you can confidently work toward obtaining your CDA®.