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Child Development Associate Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Child Care Teacher

Brainerd, MN

$13.25 - $17/hr

Minimum requirement is Child Development Certificate, Associates or Bachelor degree in child development/education preferred. * At least 18 years of age. * CPR, First Aid, AED certifications and ...

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Child Development Associate information

See Minnesota salary details

$28.4K

$52.3K

$79.3K

How much do child development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for child development associate in Minnesota is $52,318.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,600.00 and $58,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What job makes 10,000 a month without a degree?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential can lead to early childhood education roles that may pay around $10,000 per month with experience and additional certifications. High-level positions in childcare centers or private settings, especially with specialized skills or ownership, can also reach this income level without a traditional degree.

What is a Child Development Associate (CDA)?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) is a credentialed early childhood educator who has demonstrated the ability to effectively work with young children and their families. The CDA credential is awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition and is recognized nationally as a mark of competence in the field of early childhood education. Earning a CDA involves completing coursework, gaining work experience, and passing an assessment in one of several settings, such as preschool, infant/toddler, or family child care. CDAs play an important role in supporting the development, learning, and well-being of children from birth to age five.

What can I do with an associate in child development?

An associate degree in child development prepares individuals for entry-level roles such as preschool teacher, childcare provider, or early childhood assistant. It provides foundational knowledge of child growth, development, and learning, often requiring certification or licensing for certain positions. This degree can also serve as a stepping stone toward further education or specialized roles in early childhood education settings.

Is a child development associate worth it?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential can enhance job prospects and earning potential in early childhood education by demonstrating specialized skills and knowledge. It often requires completing training hours and a portfolio review, making it a valuable credential for those seeking to work in licensed childcare settings or advance their careers. However, the overall value depends on individual career goals and the specific requirements of employers in the field.

How do Child Development Associates typically collaborate with lead teachers and other staff in early childhood education settings?

Child Development Associates (CDAs) work closely with lead teachers and other staff to support classroom activities, implement lesson plans, and ensure a safe, nurturing environment for children. They often assist in observing children's progress, communicating with parents, and adapting activities to meet individual needs. Effective collaboration involves participating in team meetings, sharing observations, and contributing ideas to enhance the learning experience. This teamwork helps create a cohesive, supportive environment that benefits both children and staff.

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

To thrive as a Child Development Associate, you need a foundational understanding of early childhood development, child safety, and age-appropriate teaching methods, typically demonstrated by earning a CDA credential. Familiarity with classroom management software, child assessment tools, and health and safety regulations is often required. Strong communication, patience, and creativity are critical soft skills for building relationships with children and families. These skills and qualifications ensure the delivery of high-quality early childhood education and foster a safe, supportive learning environment.

What kind of jobs can I get with a CDA?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential qualifies individuals for roles such as preschool teacher, childcare provider, early childhood educator, or daycare director. These jobs typically involve working with young children in educational or care settings and often require knowledge of child development and safety standards.
What are the most commonly searched types of Child Development jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Child Development jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Child Development Associate jobs in Minnesota? For Child Development Associate jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Child Development Associate jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Child Development Associate jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Child Development Associate jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Child Development Associate job openings:
Child Life Associate

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago


Children's Minnesota rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 873 rated healthcare providers


Job description

About Children's Minnesota Children's Minnesota is one of the largest pediatric health systems in the United States and the only health system in Minnesota to provide care exclusively to children, from before birth through young adulthood. An independent and not-for-profit system since 1924, Children's Minnesota is one system serving kids throughout the Upper Midwest at two free-standing hospitals, nine primary care clinics, multiple specialty clinics and seven rehabilitation sites. As The Kids Experts™ in our region, Children's Minnesota is regularly ranked by U.S. News & World Report as a top children's hospital. Find us on Facebook @childrensminnesota or on Twitter and Instagram @childrensmn. Please visit childrensMN.org . Children's Minnesota is proud to be recognized by Modern Healthcare as one of 2023's Top Diversity Leaders. The national honor recognizes the top diverse healthcare executives and organizations influencing public policy, care delivery, and promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in their organizations and the industry. Department Overview
The Child Life group promotes the continuous development of children to optimize their responses to medical care, to minimize psychological stress and trauma, and to increase understanding and coping with illness and health care experiences. Child Life provides children with opportunities for gaining a sense of mastery, for play, for learning, for self-expression, for family involvement and for peer interaction. As members of the health care team, child life staff advocate for children and families in ambulatory and inpatient settings. They serve as resources to all staff and to the community on issues related to child development and child health experiences.
Position Summary The primary responsibilities of this position are planning and implementing activities and programs that support and promote normal growth and development, training and oversight of volunteers and maintaining community ties that enhance program delivery. The Child Life Associate works independently, but in collaboration with the Child Life Music Therapy department to provide a safe environment in play areas and when working at the patient bedside. The patient /family interactions may happen in inpatient settings, ambulatory care areas and the play spaces. Service hours/care delivery might include weekend and evening work hours independent of a CCLS. BLS certification required. Bachelor's degree in child development or related field is required. At least 2 years' work experience with children and families. Experience working with volunteers; experience with program planning and development. The posted salary represents a market competitive range based on salary survey benchmark data for similar roles in the local or national market. Annual salaries displayed are based on full-time employment (40 standard hrs per week). Annual salaries for part-time positions will be prorated based on the employee's scheduled weekly hours in relation to the full-time standard. When determining individual pay rates, we carefully consider a wide range of factors including but not limited to market indicators for the specific role, the skills, education, training, credentials and experience of the candidate, internal equity and organizational needs. In addition to your salary, this position may be eligible for medical, dental, vision, retirement, and other fringe benefits. Positions that require night, weekend or on-call work may be eligible for shift differentials or premium pay. All job offers are contingent upon successful completion of an occupational health assessment, drug screen, background investigation, and compliance with the U.S. Government Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification. Children's Minnesota is proud to be an equal opportunity employer whose staff is representative of its community and considers qualified applicants for open positions without regard to race, color, creed, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, disability, pregnancy, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

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About Children's Minnesota

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Children's Minnesota is one of the largest pediatric health systems in the United States and the only health system in Minnesota to provide care exclusively to children, from before birth through young adulthood. An independent and not-for-profit system since 1924, Children's Minnesota is one system serving kids throughout the Upper Midwest at two free-standing hospitals, nine primary care clinics, multiple specialty clinics and seven rehabilitation sites. As The Kids Experts in our region, Children's Minnesota is regularly ranked by U.S. News & World Report as a top children's hospital. Find us on Facebook @childrensminnesota or on Twitter and Instagram @childrensmn. Please visit childrensMN.org.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

Year founded

1924

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