SD Child Development Associate (CDA) Program
There are two options for CDA classes:
ECC CDA Classes
ECC offers CDA Classes for all age settings: Birth to Five (NEW!), Infant/Toddler, Preschool, Family Childcare, and Home Visitor.
Classes offered late-August through May
Orientation held in person
Classes are held both in-person and via Zoom on Tuesdays from 6:30-9:00pm
Canvas, an online learning platform, is used for tracking assignments, submitting work, and taking quizzes
80 hours of class + 40 hours of workbook = 120 total hours
Students receive transcript at completion of all work.
Cost: $800 (scholarships available!)
Benefits include:
All books and materials provided
Portfolio development guidance and support
Networking with other professionals
Homework & assignment support
In-person support available throughout the program
No payment due at enrollment
Interested in enrolling in CDA classes? Join us for an informational session prior to registration.
This session will cover everything you need to understand the program, its expectations and timelines, and application. Questions? Contact Shawn.
Self-study online CDA classes
An online course with Smart Horizons.
Options include Birth to Five Infant/Toddler, Family/Preschool
120-hour online self-study program
Students receive transcript at completion of all work
Cost:
$296 due at enrollment (scholarships not available)
REQUIRED Competency Standards book, $28 + tax/shipping. This required book has the comprehensive scoring instrument to be used during your verification visit.
$250 for portfolio support (optional), due at enrollment (scholarships may be available)
Portfolio Support
ECC has videos to help you put together your CDA portfolio. Click here for links to these videos.
Initial Application to the CDA Council
Required for application
120 hours of education (ECC, Smart Horizons, etc.)
Portfolio
480 hours of work (paid or volunteer) in center-based care over past three years
High school diploma or equivalent
Exam
Verification visit
$525 application fee (Contact ECC to learn whether scholarships are available.)
Scholarship qualifications
Work in a licensed/registered program
Complete the CDA Program
Contact ECC at 605-342-6464 to schedule portfolio review and assess scholarship paperwork.
CDA information
Renewal Application to the CDA Council
Renewal scholarships may be available
Call us at 605-342-6464 for more information about potential renewal fee scholarships
Application videos
