How to obtain a CDA?

Question

It states that you have to do in-person training, or on-line training to obtain a CDA. I was just wondering if I did Community Classes for this what classes are required and how much it would cost me. If I was to do it online, where is the best place to do it, and how much would it run me there.

I'm assuming there isn't just somewhere I can buy the books and study this myself then take a test without the classes??

Thanks

Answer 1

Have you checked out the Council's website yet?  The address is:

http://www.cdacouncil.org/

I earned my CDA this past year while working for a non-profit preschool run by a CDA Rep and Advisor.  I can't imagine training for the CDA without regular contact with children.  

The problem with taking the classes online is that you have to have a certain number of hours working with the children and observations must be made.  

Do check out the site and if there is a Child Care Resource and Referral office in your area they may sponsor training opportunities.

(http://www.naccrra.net/about_ccrr.php)

Good luck!

Answer 2

A CDA requires 120 hours of training in 8 different topics, a written and oral test, a Resource File with 17 specific items,written Statements of Competency  and an observation. It is possible to take the 120 hours on line, and some of those places help you prepare for the rest, but it is not the best option. Check with your local Child Care Resource and Referral agency. They should know where the program is offered in your area. Some of those agencies offer it themselves. In some areas community colleges offer it. Look for a program that offers support for preparing your Resource File and includes the Observation in the tuition. If you must take it on line make sure what you are paying for and make sure that if the people offering it on line do not do the Observation they can refer you to someone who does.