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Child Development Associate Jobs in Elkhart, IN (NOW HIRING)

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Child Development Associate information

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$27.7K

$51.1K

$77.5K

How much do child development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for child development associate in Elkhart, IN is $51,110.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,700.00 and $57,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Child Development Associate?

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.

How does a Child Development Associate 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.

Is it worth getting a child development associate certification?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) certification can enhance job prospects and demonstrate competence in early childhood education. It is often required or preferred by employers and involves completing coursework, a portfolio, and a supervised work experience, which can lead to higher earning potential and career advancement in the field.

What kind of jobs can I get with a Child Development Associate?

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 principles and safety standards.

What are popular job titles related to Child Development Associate jobs in Elkhart, IN?

For Child Development Associate jobs in Elkhart, IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Child Development Associate jobs in Elkhart, IN look for?

The top searched job categories for Child Development Associate jobs in Elkhart, IN are:

What cities near Elkhart, IN are hiring for Child Development Associate jobs?

Cities near Elkhart, IN with the most Child Development Associate job openings:

Child Development Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Child Development Associate job openings in Elkhart, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,110 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Preschool Associate Teacher- Dowagiac

Flowers Early Learning

Dowagiac, MI • On-site

$15.61 - $19.12/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Flowers Early Learning is a high-quality preschool located on Southwestern Michigan College Campus in Dowagiac, Michigan and is currently looking for Preschool Associate Teachers, serving classrooms with children ages 3-5.
Flowers Early Learning, formally known as Tri-County Head Start, was selected as one of the Best and Brightest Companies to Work for in the Nation in 2024, and one of the Moody Market Best Places to Work in Southwest Michigan in 2021, for their commitment to employee engagement, feedback, and wellness.
Our Mission: To build a future where children, families and communities thrive.
About Us: Our impact lasts a lifetime. Flowers Early Learning, formally known as Tri-County Head Start, employees promote social, emotional and physical health in our community by providing high-quality education, health services and more for the families who need us most in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties.
Benefits: We offer medical, dental, vision, & life insurance, 401(k) with employer contribution, and assistance in furthering your education.
Other benefits include paid time off, earned sick time, paid parental leave, paid holidays and breaks, paid weather days, tuition reimbursement, and an employee assistance program. Our wellness committee is dedicated in providing resources that enhance your life outside of work.
Position Summary: Associate Teachers assist lead teachers with instruction, classroom management, cleaning, food preparation, and implement curriculum, on-going assessments, and observations for preschool-age children utilizing developmentally appropriate practices consistent with agency policies, Michigan childcare licensing, and the Head Start Program Performance Standards.
Job Type: Full-time, Program Year (August-May), Hourly, Non- Exempt
Expected Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00a-4:30p, 40 Hours per week
Rate of Pay: HS Diploma/GED: $15.61 Preschool Child Development Associate Certificate (CDA): $15.93 AA $17.84 Bachelors or Higher: $19.12
Education Requirement: Minimum - High school diploma or equivalent with one year of relevant experience. Must complete age-appropriate Child Development Associate credential, child development apprenticeship or associate's degree in early childhood education within two years of hire.
Other Selection Criteria: All candidates must possess a valid driver's license and their own reliable transportation, complete a physical examination, comprehensive fingerprinted criminal background check, and pre-employment drug screen including a negative result for Amphetamines, Cannabinoids (including Marijuana/THC), Cocaine, Opiates, and Phencyclidine (PCP). Marijuana is not legal at the federal level and is prohibited in the workplace or in one's system, even if legally prescribed.
Equal Opportunity Policy: Flowers Early Learning is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination against any employee, volunteer, or applicant regarding race, sex (including pregnancy), age, color, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, religion, height, weight, marital status, genetic status and/or genetic information, veteran status, physical or mental disability and/or handicap as defined by State and Federal law

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