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Child Development Associate Jobs in Southaven, MS

Child Development Associate (CDA) or a college degree in Early Childhood, Child Development, or related field. * Previous preschool lead teacher experience (a must!). * Classroom management skills ...

Child Development Associate (CDA) or a college degree in Early Childhood, Child Development, or related field. * Previous preschool lead teacher experience (a must!). * Classroom management skills ...

Showing results 41-60

Child Development Associate information

See Southaven, MS salary details

$27.3K

$50.2K

$76.1K

How much do child development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for child development associate in Southaven, MS is $50,216.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $56,400.00 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 Southaven, MS?

For Child Development Associate jobs in Southaven, MS, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Child Development Associate jobs in Southaven, MS look for?

The top searched job categories for Child Development Associate jobs in Southaven, MS are:

What cities near Southaven, MS are hiring for Child Development Associate jobs?

Cities near Southaven, MS with the most Child Development Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Child Development Associate job openings in Southaven, MS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,216 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Head Start Assistant Teacher- Johnson Early Center

YMCA of Memphis & The MId

Memphis, TN โ€ข On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Description:

YMCA OF MEMPHIS AND THE MIDSOUTH ELC - HEAD START ASSISTANT TEACHER

SUMMARY OF POSITION:

Responsible for assisting with supervision of and implementing activities with a group of children in a child development center program.

PURPOSE OF POSITION:

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Under the general direction of the Center Director, Program Coordinator and/or Lead Teacher the full - time Head Start Assistant Teacher will assist with supervision of and implementing activities with a group of children in a child development center program.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Assist classroom teachers and lead teachers in areas including, but not limited to:
  • Providing excellent and nurturing care to all children in the classroom.
  • Planning and implementation of the age-appropriate classroom activities.
  • Maintains accurate rosters of children in care, assisting parents with sign-in and out.
  • Ensuring the daily schedule is followed.
  • Complete daily parent reports and communication tools.
  • Maintaining stimulating and orderly program spaces.
  • Serving meals and snacks to children.
  • Complies with all risk management standards to ensure a safe environment, responding to all incidents and following the YMCA incident management process.
  • Practices positive and timely communication to parents regarding their child’s experience.
  • Practices positive and uplifting communication to their team.
  • Assure compliance with state and local regulations.
  • Maintains all training and education hours required by the State of Tennessee Department of Human ServicesChild care Licensing.
  • Attends and participates in assigned staff meetings and special events to
  • Provide a collaborative and cohesive approach to the YMCA’s vision and mission.
  • Assume other duties and responsibilities as assigned by and agreed to by their supervisor to meet the changing needs of the program and/or branch.

YMCA LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES:

Mission Advancement: Reinforces the Y’s values within the organization and the community. Effectively communicates the benefits and impact of the Y’s efforts for all stakeholders.

Collaboration: Builds and nurtures strategic relationships to enhance support for the Y. Serves as a community leader building collaborations based on trust and credibility to advance the Y’s mission and goals. Communicates for influence to attain buy-in and support of goals. Provides tools and resources for the development of others.

Operational Effectiveness: Integrates multiple thinking processes to make decisions. Involves staff at all levels in the development of programs and activities. Ensures execution of plans. Institutes sound accounting procedures and financial controls. Assigns clear accountability and ensures continuous improvement.

Personal Growth: Fosters a learning environment embracing diverse abilities and approaches. Creates a sense of urgency and positive tension to support change. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

Behavioral Characteristics: Welcoming, Nurturing, Determined, Hopeful, and Genuine.

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

  • Minimum 18 years of age
  • At a minimum, Child Development Associate (CDA)
  • Enrolled in a program that will lead to an associate's or bachelor's degree
  • Enrolled in a CDA program to complete within two years of the time of hire

WORK SCHEDULE:

The full time work schedule for this position is generally Monday through Friday, 8:00am-6:00pm, though evenings, and weekends work may be required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

  • Climbing, sitting, standing, pushing, walking, kneeling, and stooping
  • Some Exposure to the outdoor elements
  • Exposure to electrical/mechanical mechanisms
  • Exposure to some chemical elements
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds

The YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South aims to provide quality and safe youth programs for all. We are committed to making a continuous effort to prevent the abuse of children: verbally, physically, emotionally and sexually. All allegations or suspicions of child abuse are taken seriously and will be reported to the State for investigation with full cooperation from the YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South

Requirements: