Credential Opportunities
Home »
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.
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 Out of School Time (OST) Credential
Youth Development Professionals working in programs serving school-age children may enroll in the South Dakota Out-of-School Time (OST) Credential training program. The SD OST Credential is a state-administered professional credential, modeled after the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.
This credential involves online training and support through the SD ECE system.
- 120 clock hours of formal education
- 480 hours of experience working with school-age children
- A professional resource file and other documentation of competence
- A formal observation completed by the regional OST Credential advisor
- A formal representative visit, which includes a written and oral interview
People who pursue the SD OST Credential learn to demonstrate their ability to nurture school-age children’s physical, social, emotional and intellectual growth. For more information, contact a regional Early Childhood Enrichment site.
