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Child Development Associate Jobs in Gulfport, MS

Jackson County School District

Teacher Assistant

Vancleave, MS · On-site

$11.25 - $14.25/hr

Completion of an Early Childhood Training Program includes the Child Development Associate (CDA), National/State Director's Credential, Montessori Credential, and the MDE's intensiv,e specialized ...

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Child Development Associate information

See Gulfport, MS salary details

$28.9K

$53.1K

$80.6K

How much do child development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for child development associate in Gulfport, MS is $53,147.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,300.00 and $59,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can I do with a child development associate?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential qualifies individuals to work as early childhood educators, preschool teachers, or childcare providers. With this credential, you can work in daycare centers, preschools, or early learning programs, often requiring knowledge of child development principles and basic caregiving skills. It can also serve as a stepping stone for advanced roles in early childhood education or pursuing further certifications.

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.

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 can lead to higher wages and career advancement in childcare settings. The certification involves completing training, gaining experience, and passing an exam, making it a valuable credential for those seeking to work with young children.

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.
What are popular job titles related to Child Development Associate jobs in Gulfport, MS? For Child Development Associate jobs in Gulfport, MS, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Child Development Associate jobs in Gulfport, MS look for? The top searched job categories for Child Development Associate jobs in Gulfport, MS are:
What cities near Gulfport, MS are hiring for Child Development Associate jobs? Cities near Gulfport, MS with the most Child Development Associate job openings:
Child Development Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Child Development Associate job openings in Gulfport, MS 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 $53,147 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Assistant Teacher - Daycare

Community Action of South Mississippi

Moss Point, MS • On-site

$11.75 - $14.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Position Overview
The Assistant Teacher ensures the young children we serve have a solid foundation for life by encouraging the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development of children and attending to their safety and welfare. The Assistant Teacher promotes family engagement in all aspects of the program by supporting the Daycare Teacher in providing quality classroom activities that meet the requirements of any local, state, federal, and/or agency policies and procedures.
Experience
Six (6) months of experience working with toddlers and preschool children in a daycare setting is preferred.
Physical Demands
Work involves frequent movement throughout the classroom and the facility. Work involves using repetitive motions of the wrists, hands and/or fingers while operating standard office equipment. Must be able to perceive the nature of sound at normal speaking levels with or without correction. Must be able to be active for extended periods of time without experiencing undue fatigue.
Must be able to lift children weighing 50 pounds or more as it may be required during emergencies or other unusual circumstances. Must be able to perform indoor and outdoor activities with children, including floor activities, keeping pace with the energy level of the children. Must recognize hazards and dangerous situations and take appropriate action. Must be available to accompany children on field trips, assisting them on/off the bus and when crossing the street.
Mental Demands
Must demonstrate good communication and speaking skills to receive and give information in person and by telephone. Must demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills. Must have the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Attention to detail and the ability to multi-task in complex situations is required.
Must have the ability to apply Early Childhood Development (focus on infant/toddler) theory in daily activities, and adapt to the individual needs of children.
Special Demands
Must possess superior customer service skills and professional etiquette. Must possess proficient knowledge and ability to use a computer (must be keyboard proficient) and other office technology (i.e., telephone, fax, etc.).
Must have the ability to supervise and monitor children at all times to ensure a safe environment, including the physical ability to monitor and move quickly in order to respond to children who are very active and may need restraint or redirection in order to ensure their safety or the safety of others.
Must have emotional maturity, willingness to cooperate with the aims of the program, respect for children and adults, flexibility, patience, good personal hygiene, and physical and mental health that does not interfere with responsibilities.
Requirements
Education
High School graduate or equivalent required. A Child Development Associate credential (CDA) is preferred.
Certification
A Child Development Associate credential (CDA) in infant/toddler; OR enrolled in a program leading to an associate or baccalaureate degree in early childhood education; OR enrolled in a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential program to be completed within 18 months of hire date.

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