Deadline Extended: Child Development Associate Program for Spring 2022

Looking to receive a Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential? Check out Trying Together’s programs to get certified, renew your certification, and more. The Spring 2022 deadline has been extended.

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A CDA Credential is the most widely recognized credential in the early childhood field and is a key stepping stone on the path to career advancement. The credential enables professionals to work in Head Start and Early Head Start classrooms, in addition to early learning programs across the United States, and provides opportunities for increased pay. Interested applicants may complete the CDA Interest Form to connect with a member of our staff. 

Trying Together offers the following CDA programs at no cost to eligible early childhood professionals in Pennsylvania:

CDA Credential Preparation Program

  • Spring 2022 Classes: 1/11/22 - 6/14/22 (Deadline to Register Extended to: 1/31/22)

  • Fall 2022 Classes: 8/30/22 - 3/28/23

  • Biweekly Zoom Meetings and Schoology

Participants complete 135 hours of professional development to earn their CDA Credential in six to nine months. Participants can matriculate up to nine course credits at Carlow University upon credential completion.

CDA Credential Community of Practice Program

  • Spring 2022 Classes: Spring Classes: 3/1/22 - 4/26/22

  • Biweekly Zoom Meetings and Schoology

Participants receive support in building a portfolio and preparing for the CDA Credential Exam. Applicants must have proof of 120 hours of coursework completed via professional development hours, transcripts, etc.

CDA Credential Renewal Program

Participants review current standards, literature, strategies, and more to meet the criteria for eight early childhood subject areas upon completion. Applicants are accepted on a rolling basis.

For more information, visit Trying Together’s CDA Credential page. To ask a question about the programs, contact Theresa Hetler at theresa@tryingtogether.org or Jasmine Davis at jasmine@tryingtogether.org. For eligibility questions, contact Judy Graca at judy@tryingtogether.org.

News, ProvidersHeidi Winkler