What is the CDA credential? 

A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential is the credential an individual earns after having successfully completed the CDA process and an assessment by the Council for Professional Recognition, 2460 16^th Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20009-3575; (800) 424-4310; www.cdacouncil.org. The CDA credential, a recognized part of the child care regulations in Iowa and across the country, is a way to earn points on the Iowa’s Quality Rating System, and is a part of the process of achieving some accreditation standards. CDA credentials have been awarded in our country since 1971 and over 200,000 credentials have been granted.

What is the new consultation project?

The Iowa Professional Development Consultation (IPDC) project offers services that are available across the state for any early care and education practitioner who desires support and guidance with…

         · developing a professional development plan,

         · obtaining a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential

         · completing degrees in early childhood related fields. 

This project has developed this exciting and much needed collaborative partnership to provide professional development consulting for early care and education practitioners who work in the Pre-Kindergarten, Head Start, and child care throughout the state.