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Child Development Associate Certificate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Missouri

CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE

Columbia, MO · On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Child Development Associate Internal applicants can determine their University title by accessing ... Childcare Assistants are required to become Certified CPR & 1 st Aid Instructors during the school ...

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Child Development Associate Certificate information

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$53.4K

$81K

How much do child development associate certificate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for child development associate certificate in the United States is $53,418.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,500.00 and $60,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a CDA certificate worth it?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate is a recognized credential for early childhood educators, often required for preschool teaching positions and childcare roles. It demonstrates foundational skills in child development and caregiving, which can improve job prospects and earning potential. However, career advancement may also require additional education or experience depending on the setting and state requirements.

What is a Child Development Associate (CDA) Certificate?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) Certificate is a nationally recognized credential in early childhood education. It demonstrates that an individual has the knowledge, skills, and abilities to work with young children and support their development. The CDA is often required for childcare positions in preschools, Head Start programs, and daycare centers. Earning this certificate involves completing coursework, gaining hands-on experience, and passing an assessment process. The credential helps professionals advance their careers and improve the quality of care for children.

What jobs can I get with a CDA certificate?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate qualifies individuals for roles such as preschool teacher, childcare provider, or early childhood educator. These positions typically involve working in daycare centers, preschools, or early learning programs and often require knowledge of child development and classroom management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Child Development Associate (CDA), and why are they important?

To thrive as a Child Development Associate, you need a solid understanding of early childhood education principles, child safety, and age-appropriate instructional strategies, typically supported by earning a CDA credential. Familiarity with classroom management tools, early learning assessment systems, and ongoing professional development is expected. Patience, strong communication, and the ability to build positive relationships with children and families are crucial soft skills. These skills and qualifications ensure that children receive high-quality care and education in a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment.

What is the difference between Child Development Associate Certificate vs Preschool Teacher?

CriteriaChild Development Associate CertificatePreschool Teacher
Required CredentialsCDAs typically require a CDA credential, which involves coursework, experience, and a background check.Preschool teachers often need a high school diploma or associate degree, with some states requiring a CDA or early childhood certification.
Work EnvironmentChildcare centers, preschools, Head Start programs, and home-based settings.Preschools, daycare centers, and early childhood education programs.
Employer & Industry UsageUsed as an entry-level credential for early childhood assistants and aides.Used for teaching roles in early childhood education settings.

The Child Development Associate Certificate is a credential that qualifies individuals for entry-level roles supporting young children's development, often as aides or assistants. A preschool teacher typically has more formal education and is responsible for planning and leading classroom activities. While both roles work in early childhood settings, the CDA focuses on foundational skills and support roles, whereas preschool teachers have more instructional responsibilities.

What are some common challenges Child Development Associates face when working with young children in a classroom setting?

Child Development Associates (CDAs) often encounter challenges such as managing diverse behaviors among children, balancing the needs of individual students with group activities, and maintaining effective communication with parents and guardians. Adapting lesson plans to accommodate children with varying developmental levels and backgrounds is also a frequent challenge. To address these, CDAs regularly collaborate with other educators and support staff, participate in ongoing professional development, and use creative problem-solving to foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment.

What can I do with my child development certificate?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) Certificate qualifies individuals for entry-level positions in early childhood education, such as preschool teacher, childcare provider, or family childcare home provider. It demonstrates knowledge of child development and caregiving skills, often required for working in licensed childcare centers or family homes. The certificate can also serve as a stepping stone for further education or advanced certifications in early childhood education.

What does child development associate certification mean?

The Child Development Associate (CDA) certification is a credential that recognizes early childhood professionals who demonstrate competence in supporting children's development and learning. It requires completing specific training hours, gaining hands-on experience, and passing a credentialing exam. The certification is often a requirement for working in licensed childcare settings and helps validate a caregiver's skills in child development and classroom management.
More about Child Development Associate Certificate jobs
What states have the most Child Development Associate Certificate jobs? States with the most job openings for Child Development Associate Certificate jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Child Development Associate Certificate jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Child Development Associate Certificate jobs are:
Child Development Associate Certificate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Child Development Associate Certificate job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,418 per year, or $25.7 per hour.
Child Development Associate

Child Development Associate

Pinellas County Schools

Tarpon Springs, FL • On-site

$17.98/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Pinellas County Schools rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

454th of 574 rated elementary and secondary schools

Job description

Noninstructional/Support - Position - CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOC (CDA)
Job Number 3700271952
Start Date 08/03/2025
Open Date 07/02/2026
Closing Date 07/19/2026
# of Jobs 1
Hours per Day 7
Work Hours 7:45-3:15
Temporary Position No
Calendar Days 10-month (196 days)
Salary
For Salary Schedule, clickHERE. $17.9806
Pay Grade D
Pay Grade 09
Minimum Educational Requirements Other - Please see job description for specific requirements.
Contract Type Full-Time
Reports to PRINCIPAL
Contact Person's Name Susan Flemming
Contact Person's Email flemmings@pcsb.org
Job Description.
ClickHERE. View Attachment
Additional Job Information
Must hold holds a current Child Development Associate (CDA) or Child
Development Associate Credential

What Pinellas County Schools employees say

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About Pinellas County Schools

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The primary goal of the District is to ensure that each student achieves at the highest possible level. Education is to be provided in a manner that does not discriminate or cause harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, or social and family background. In order for this to be accomplished every school staff member will strive to create a positive, safe environment that encourages and supports student success. Underlying causes for misbehavior will be explored, and when possible, positive redirection will occur and acceptable alternative behaviors will be taught. Such redirection may involve a collaborative effort of parents, school, and community.

Industry

Education

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Largo, FL, US

Year founded

1912

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