Credential Opportunities - South Dakota Early Childhood Enrichment

South Dakota Child Development Associate (CDA) Training Program

Preparing individuals to meet the developmental, emotional and educational needs of young children.

What is a CDA? The Child Development Associate (CDA) credential is a nationally recognized early childhood professional credential administered by the Council for Professional Recognition. Providers who pursue the CDA credential learn to demonstrate their ability to nurture young children’s physical, social, emotional and intellectual growth.

The South Dakota CDA training program supports individuals interested in earning the National CDA Credential by increasing the availability of early childhood professional training and mentorship across South Dakota. The CDA training program is offered as a service of the state Early Childhood Enrichment System.

South Dakota Child Development Associate (CDA) Training Program Image

Why earn a CDA?

Meets the qualifications for a child care director or program planner under South Dakota child care licensing rules.
CDA is based on the knowledge of the nation’s leading scholars in early care and learning and is nationally recognized in all 50 states.
Gain professional knowledge and abilities to work effectively with young children in your setting:
CDA Credential articulates to Associate or Bachelor’s degree credits in higher education programs in South Dakota.

How do I earn a CDA?

For more information about SDCDA training available in your area, enrollment procedures and program costs, contact a regional Early Childhood Enrichment site.

South Dakota School-Age Care (SAC) Credential Program

Empowering School-Age Professionals across South Dakota to advance their careers. This opportunity serves School-Age Educators supporting youth in summer programs and before and after school programs. This opportunity is available in two options, which include the South Dakota School-Age Care (SAC) Certificate or full Credential.

The SD SAC Certificate is a state-recognized professional development award for 38 hours of youth-specific training, which includes on-demand accessible training. This certificate is a pathway to the SD SAC Credential and supports your ongoing professional development as an educator serving youth.

The SD SAC Credential is 120 hours of formal training, a state-administered credential that includes a professional portfolio, interview and observation.

This SD SAC Credential involves online on-demand training in addition to assistance and consultation through the SD Early Childhood Enrichment System to support your success. This opportunity allows working educators to gain impactful training while continuing to serve South Dakota’s youth. This opportunity includes the following criteria:

120 clock hours of formal online, on-demand training aligned with National Afterschool Association’s Core Knowledge, Skills and Competencies
480 hours of experience working with school-age children
A professional portfolio and documentation of demonstrated skills and abilities
An observation by a regional SAC Credential Advisor
An oral interview conducted by a SAC Regional Representative

Participants who pursue the SD SAC Credential learn to demonstrate their ability to nurture school-age children’s physical development, social wellness and emotional wellness, and intellectual and cognitive growth. Educators who complete the SD SAC Credential can be placed at a Level 6 on the Pathways to Professional Development Career Ladder.

To begin your journey toward the SD SAC Certificate or Credential, contact your regional SD Early Childhood Enrichment office.

This website and efforts of the SD ECE System do not represent South Dakota State University official views. The Child and Family Resource Network is a SDSU grant funded outreach agency.