Catalog Info
The first in a two-course sequence designed to help candidates acquire skills and knowledge for the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and, is an introduction course to the CDA credentialing process. The CDA is a national performance-based credential awarded by the CDA Council to teachers, caregivers, home visitors, and administrators who work with children from birth to age five. This course will cover the following CDA topics: Safe, Healthy, Learning Environment; Self, Social, Guidance; and Families. Students will get a better understanding of children’s developmental stages (from birth-5) and will be able to plan developmentally appropriate activities for young children (including those with special needs).The CDA Professional Portfolio is initiated in this introduction course. This course can be used to satisfy part of the 120 clock hours of instruction required by the CDA Council.
The following NAEYC Associate Degree Standards are met by this course at the understanding or application level:
1. Promoting Child Development and Learning:
- 1a: Knowing and understanding young children's characteristics and needs.
- 1b: Knowing and understanding the multiple influences on early development and learning.
2. Building Family and Community Relationships:
- 2a: Knowing about and understanding diverse families and communities.
- 2b: Supporting and engaging families and communities through respectful, reciprocal relationships.
- 2c: Involving families and communities in young children's development and learning.
3. Observing, Documenting, and Assessing to Support Young Children and Families:
- 3c: Understanding and practicing responsible assessment to promote positive outcomes for each child.
4. Using Effective Approaches to Connect with Children and Families:
- 4a: Knowing, understanding, and using positive relationships.
5. Using Content Knowledge to Build Meaningful Curriculum:
- 5a: Understanding content knowledge and resources in academic disciplines.
Credit for Prior College-Level Learning
Students with a current CDA Credential may request credit for prior learning. The student may scan, fax, mail or hand deliver a copy of the CDA Credential to the program director. When sending a copy of your Credential, please include the following:
- A typed letter with the date, semester for which you are requesting the credit, your name, phone number, email address, student ID#, and a paragraph explaining your request.
Note: A copy of your CDA Credential will be retained in the Department Office.
Program Director: Marlene White Office K-301A Email: mwhite34@hfcc.edu Phone: (313) 845-6311 Social Science Division Fax: (313)845-7150