Family Resource Network

CDA (Child Development Associate)

The South Dakota Child Development Associate (SDCDA) Training Project provides early childhood professional training and mentorship for individuals who work with:

•       Children in child care centers

•       Family child care homes

•       Preschools

•       Out-of-School Time programs

•       Head Start programs.
  

Training

The SDCDA Project consists of high school and adult education training programs located throughout the state. Classes are offered during hours that are convenient for people who work with children during the day.

The following SDCDA courses address the training areas required for completion of the national CDA assessment process:

• Early Childhood Profession

• Health, Safety and Nutrition

• Child Development and Planning

• Partnerships with Parents

• Programs for Children

• Guidance for Children

 

Eligibility

To be eligible for the program, you must currently work with children or wish to pursue a career working with children. You may begin the training as young as 16 years old (while also completing the requirements to obtain a high school diploma or equivalent).  However, many people pursue this training years after their high school education.

Prior to applying for the national CDA assessment, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old

• Have a high school diploma or equivalent.

• Have 480 hours of experience working with children within the past 5 years.

• Have 120 hours of formal early childhood education completed within the past 5 years.  

Enrollment Information

For more information contact the Family Resource Network at 605-688-5730 or 1-800-354-8238.