Welcome to your CDA Pathway !
Getting Started
How does the CDA Pathway work?
We've designed our CDA Pathway to walk you through every step of the process and help you successfully earn your CDA Credential.
Visit the CDA Pathway Courses
These courses are designed to help you navigate the CDA, stay on track and complete 120 training hours, and provide you with portfolio support.
Each course is numbered so you can complete them in order, and will cover one subject area (with the exception of the Introduction and Conclusion)
Each course is numbered so you can complete them in order, and will cover one subject area (with the exception of the Introduction and Conclusion)
Complete 120 Training Hours
Complete our courses as part of each subject area to get the required training hours needed for your CDA. Our CDA Pathway tells you which courses to take so you meet all the requirements.
Schedule a Verification Visit and take the CDA Exam
Once you've completed all your training, the final steps are to schedule and complete your Verification Visit with the CDA Council and take the CDA Exam.
Download your CDA Pathway Checklist to stay on track!
Frequently asked questions
Where do I start?
Start with the first CDA Pathway course by clicking the button below. At the beginning of each Subject Area, you'll have a CDA Pathway course to give you portfolio support and directions.
How do I use this website?
We have lots of tutorials showing you how to use our website and platform to complete your training.
Where do I buy the CDA Competency Standards book?
You can buy the CDA Competency Standards book from the CDA Council website.
What is a PD Specialist?
A PD Specialist or Professional Development Specialist is a professional certified by the Council for Professional Recognition who will perform the Verification Visit.
How long is this going to take?
That's completely up to you! The CDA has 120 hours worth of coursework. If you work 5 hours a week, then it will take you 6 months to complete the coursework.
All of our courses are self-paced, and you will have access to them for 12 months from the date of purchase.
What is the Verification Visit?
The Verification Visit is conducted by the CDA Council. This is where someone from the CDA Council will observe you working with children.
The PD Specialist you select will be the one conducting the visit. There are 3 parts to a verification visit: portfolio review, observation, and a reflection time with the PD Specialist.
How long is a CDA good for?
The CDA Credential must be renewed every 3 years.
What if I need help during a course?
You can contact our dedicated support team anytime by clicking the 'Help' icon at the lower right corner of the screen
I have more questions about the CDA.
We have more answers! You can view our general CDA FAQs or contact support for more questions.
Ready to get started?
Click the button below to visit the first Road Map course, or if you have questions, contact our support team.
Supporting families and childcare providers through continuing education
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