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Child Development Associate Jobs in High Ridge, MO

Primrose School

Preschool Teacher

O Fallon, MO · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

CDA (child development associates) Scholarship opportunities * Associate and bachelor's Degree Scholarship Opportunities * Opportunities for advancement * A dedicated leadership team and owner ...

Primrose School

Toddler Teacher

O Fallon, MO · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

CDA (child development associates) Scholarship opportunities * Associate and bachelor's Degree Scholarship Opportunities * Opportunities for advancement * A dedicated leadership team and owner ...

The Goddard School

Lead Teacher Preschool

Rock Hill, MO · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Child Development Associate (CDA) also considered * At least 2 years of lead teaching experience in a licensed preschool or childcare setting, with a proven track record of innovative instruction.

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Child Development Associate information

See High Ridge, MO salary details

$26.5K

$48.8K

$74K

How much do child development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for child development associate in High Ridge, MO is $48,779.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,800.00 and $54,800.00 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 cities near High Ridge, MO are hiring for Child Development Associate jobs?

Cities near High Ridge, MO with the most Child Development Associate job openings:

Child Development Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Child Development Associate job openings in High Ridge, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,779 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Pre-k Teacher

Urban Sprouts Child Development Center

Saint Louis, MO

$21 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Early Childhood Educator
The Pre-k Teacher provides leadership within the classroom to ensure a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment grounded in a Reggio Emilia–inspired philosophy. This role is responsible for curriculum design and implementation, classroom management, documentation of children’s learning, and fostering strong relationships with families. The Pre-k Teacher serves as a facilitator of child-led inquiry and a collaborative partner to colleagues while advancing the mission and values of Urban Sprouts. This role reports directly to the Head of Pedagogy and Assistant Head of Pedagogy.
 Compensation & Benefits:
Pay Range: $21 - $25 per hour (USD), Salary commensurate with experience and education.
Our generous benefits include:
  • Eligibility to participate in our Teacher Housing program
  • Medical Health Insurance of which we pay 75% of the premium to start and 90% of the premium after your one-year service anniversary
  • Dental & Vision insurance of which we pay 75% of the premium to start and 90% of the premium after your one-year service anniversary
  • Free snacks and beverages
  • Free CPR/First Aid training as well as other trainings throughout the year
  • 2 Paid Mental Health Days a year
  • All Federal Holidays Paid, to include Juneteenth and MLK day
  • Special Staff Appreciation Event in Summer (typically involving free travel)
  • 403 B (comparable to 401K) retirement plan
 
Paid Time Off (PTO):
  • 5 weeks of PTO starting at year one 
  • 7 weeks after 2 years 
  • 8 weeks after 5 years 
*This total PTO includes several pre-scheduled breaks throughout the year:
  • 1 week Spring Break (March) 
  • 2 weeks Winter Break (December/January) 
  • 1 week Summer Break (July) 
*Flexible PTO for personal use:
  • 1 week in your first year (starts after first 30 days)
  • 2 weeks after your second year 
  • 3 weeks after your third year
 
Key Responsibilities
Daily Classroom Operations
● Maintain at all times high-quality child care standards grounded in developmentally appropriate practice and aligned with the school’s philosophy and curriculum approach.
● Design and maintain an inviting, intentional classroom environment that reflects children’s interests and supports inquiry-based learning.
● Ensure the safety, supervision, and well-being of all children, responding promptly and appropriately to incidents or concerns.
● Maintain child-to-staff ratios at all times and collaborate with leadership to ensure proper classroom coverage.
● Establish consistent classroom routines that promote independence, responsibility, and community.
● Support and lead with Co- Teacher(s) and support staff within the classroom.
● Maintain accurate attendance, incident reports, and required documentation in accordance with licensing requirements.
 
Curriculum and Documentation
● Lead the development and implementation of emergent, project-based curriculum inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach.
● Observe children closely and document learning through photographs, written reflections, and displays that make learning visible.
● Plan intentional provocations and experiences that extend children’s thinking and inquiry.
● Use assessment tools and documentation to inform instruction and individualize learning experiences.
● Collaborate with the pedagogical team to reflect on curriculum, plan next steps, and ensure alignment across classrooms.
● Participate in ongoing professional development to deepen understanding of child development and Reggio-inspired practice.
 
Family and Child Engagement
● Maintain strong, respectful, and consistent communication with families.
● Conduct parent-teacher conferences and share documentation of children’s growth and development.
● Support family engagement events and school-wide initiatives.
● Partner with families using strengths-based and culturally responsive practices.
● Collaborate with leadership and support staff when developmental or behavioral concerns arise.
 
Team Collaboration and Professional Responsibilities
● Serve as a collaborative and supportive member of the teaching team.
● Model professionalism, reflective practice, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
● Attend and actively participate in staff meetings, training, and school events.
● Support Assistant Teachers through mentorship, coaching, and clear communication.
● Maintain working knowledge of Missouri State Child Care Licensing regulations and NAEYC standards.
● Perform other related duties as assigned to support the mission and sustainability of the program.
 
Garden to Table Integration
● Integrate garden, kitchen, and farm-to-table experiences into classroom learning when appropriate.
● Collaborate with kitchen and farm staff to extend seasonal programming into curriculum projects.
● Support children’s participation in food preparation, gardening, and related hands-on learning experiences while ensuring health and safety compliance.
 
Qualifications
● Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
● Minimum of 3 years of experience in an early childhood classroom setting.
● Experience leading a classroom or readiness to step into a lead educator role.
● Knowledge of or interest in the Reggio Emilia approach, emergent curriculum, and inquiry-based learning.
● Strong classroom management, organizational, and communication skills.
● Commitment to reflective practice and professional growth.
 
Core Competencies and Expectations
● Demonstrates strong leadership within the classroom and fosters a collaborative team culture.
● Builds meaningful relationships with children and families.
● Maintains confidentiality and professionalism at all times.
● Communicates clearly, respectfully, and effectively.
● Aligns daily practice with the mission, values, and philosophy of Urban Sprouts.
● Demonstrates curiosity, flexibility, and a deep respect for children as capable learners.

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Compensation details: 21-25 Hourly Wage


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