The Child Development Associate, also known as a CDA, is a professional recognition for those who are experts in the care, development, and well-being of children. The CDA process includes the collection of documentation of certifications and qualifications, an application and an examination. This examination, which is commonly called the CDA test or the Early Childhood Studies Review, is just one part of the process and is only one of four things considered by the team of professionals that awards the CDA credential. It involves 60 multiple choice questions and an oral interview.
Step 1
Gain experience working with children and parents in a school or day-care setting. An important part of the CDA test is the oral interview, which focuses on your ability to demonstrate expertise in several early childhood scenarios.
Step 2
Enroll in classes at a local community college or university of your choice. The more background information you have in child development from college courses, the more prepared you will feel when taking the CDA test.
Step 3
Purchase a CDA Test Preparation book and review the contents. Some local libraries might also own copies of the book for you to rent.
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