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Child Development Associates Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Missouri

CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE

Columbia, MO · On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Child Development Associate Internal applicants can determine their University title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR. New employees may qualify for a special one-time incentive payment ...

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$29K

$53.4K

$81K

How much do child development associates jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for child development associates in the United States is $53,418.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,500.00 and $60,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Child Development Associates face when working with children from diverse backgrounds?

Child Development Associates often encounter challenges when supporting children from various cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. These challenges can include bridging language barriers, adapting learning activities to accommodate different traditions and values, and ensuring that every child feels included and understood. To address these, associates must communicate effectively with families, seek out culturally responsive teaching strategies, and collaborate closely with teachers and specialists to create an inclusive classroom environment. Continuous professional development and open-mindedness are key to overcoming these challenges and supporting each child's growth.

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

Child Development Associates typically do not earn $10,000 a month without a degree; most earn lower wages. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include roles like sales managers, real estate brokers, or entrepreneurs, which rely on experience, skills, and business acumen rather than formal education. These positions may require certifications, licenses, or extensive experience to achieve such income levels.

What can you do with a child development associate?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential qualifies individuals to work as early childhood educators, such as preschool teachers or childcare providers. With this credential, you can plan and implement developmentally appropriate activities, support children's learning and social skills, and work in daycare centers, preschools, or early education programs. The CDA often requires completing training hours, a portfolio, and a competency assessment.

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 (CDA), you need knowledge of early childhood education principles, child safety, and developmentally appropriate practices, typically supported by a CDA credential. Familiarity with lesson planning, classroom management software, and child assessment tools is often required. Strong communication, patience, and observational skills help build rapport with children and collaborate effectively with families and colleagues. These skills ensure a safe, nurturing, and educational environment that promotes healthy development in young children.

What is the difference between Child Development Associates vs Preschool Teachers?

AspectChild Development AssociatesPreschool Teachers
CredentialsTypically require a CDA credential or similar certificationOften need a preschool teaching credential or early childhood education degree
Work EnvironmentChildcare centers, Head Start programs, early intervention settingsPreschools, daycare centers, private and public schools
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by early childhood programs focusing on developmental supportCommon in educational settings preparing children for kindergarten

Child Development Associates and preschool teachers both work with young children in early childhood settings. While CDAs focus on foundational developmental support and often hold specific certifications, preschool teachers typically have formal teaching credentials and work in educational environments. Both roles are vital in early childhood education but differ mainly in certification requirements and work settings.

What is the highest paying job in child development?

The highest paying roles in child development often include senior positions such as Child Development Program Directors or Pediatric Development Specialists, which require advanced degrees and extensive experience. These roles typically offer higher salaries due to increased responsibilities, specialized skills, and leadership requirements within educational or healthcare settings.

What are Child Development Associates?

Child Development Associates (CDAs) are early childhood professionals who have earned the Child Development Associate Credential, demonstrating their ability to nurture and educate young children. CDAs work in settings such as preschools, daycare centers, and Head Start programs, supporting children's physical, emotional, and cognitive development. They play a key role in creating safe, nurturing environments and collaborating with families to promote healthy growth and learning. The CDA credential is recognized nationwide and often required for entry-level positions in early childhood education.

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 with young children in licensed settings.
More about Child Development Associates jobs
What job categories do people searching Child Development Associates jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Child Development Associates jobs are:
Child Development Associates jobs near you
Infographic showing various Child Development Associates job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 32% Full Time, 64% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,418 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Child & Youth Program Assistant (Child Development Center)

Child Development Center | Barksdale Life

Whiteman Air Force Base, MO

$18.70/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

About the position: This position is located at the CDC.

Not eligible to earn leave or sign up for benefits.
Eligible to use the gym, golf course, bowling center, club, swimming pools and other activities.

Department of the Air Force Child and Youth Programs Employee Child Care Discount applicable to this position (see Additional Information).
Pay will be set based on experience and education and/or certification:
Target Level: $22.11
Intermediate Level: $20.69
Entry Level: $18.70Qualifications:Who May Apply: Open to everyone. Applicants will be categorized by preference(s) and/or priority consideration eligibilities. An applicant's eligibility will be determined based on eligibility claimed in the questionnaire and proof of eligibility MUST be provided with application by the closing date, 08/18/2026
  • Business Based Action
  • Military Spouse Preference
  • Outside Applicant Veteran
  • Spouse/Widow/Parent of Veteran
  • Transition Hiring Preference

In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application.
Qualifying Experience: ALL LEVELS
Must be a high school graduate, or equivalent; and be able to provide proof (i.e., diploma or equivalent) for verification.
AND
CY PROGRAM ASSISTANT (TARGET LEVEL):
  • 18 months working in any childcare or youth program. Completion of DoD approved competency-training courses. Additionally, entry and intermediate level training must be completed and evident by Service-issued documentation.
  • 18 months of experience working in a childcare or youth program, plus possession and maintenance of one of the following directly related to the age group of the position to which assigned: child development associate credential, military school age credential, or other nationally recognized youth development credential.
  • 18 months of experience working in a childcare or youth program, plus an associate degree that includes a major course of study (24 credit hours) with content directly related to the age group to which assigned, from a regionally or nationally accredited college or university.
  • Possession and maintenance of one of the following directly related to the age group of the position to which assigned: child development associate credential, military school age credential, Army youth practicum or other nationally recognized youth development credential.
  • A bachelor's degree or at least 120 semester hours with a major course of study (24 credit hours) from a regionally or nationally accredited college or university with content directly related to: early childhood education, child development, youth development, human development, elementary education, special education, secondary education, youth program administration, recreation, and physical education.

CY PROGRAM ASSISTANT (INTERMEDIATE LEVEL):
  • Six months experience equivalent to the CY-01 Entry Level working in a group program for children or youth AND Completion of 3 AF modules (or equivalent) AND AF Orientation Training Program.

CY PROGRAM ASSISTANT (ENTRY LEVEL):
  • This is an entry level position; no previous experience required.
Education:Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to qualify. This position does allow for education substitution in order to qualify.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.Employment Type: OTHER

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