The Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential is the most widely recognized credential in early childhood education (ECE) in the U.S. The credential is awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition. To earn a CDA, applicants must demonstrate their competency in areas which support the healthy growth and development of children, both in center-based care, and in home visiting programs. History In 1973, the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, Administration on Children, Youth and Families (ACYF) funded the Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) to improve the quality of early childhood education (ECE.) The CDA was based on a combination of verified training hours, objective testing, and direct observation of the candidate in the classroom environment. The CDA encompasses both working with children in the ECE setting and interaction with parents or guardians. The first CDA credential was awarded in 1975. The CDA became the sole nationally recognized ECE credential, accepted in all 50 states and U.S. Territories. An initial CDA credential was valid for a period of five years, with a renewal valid for a period of three years. In 1985, ACYF, in cooperation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) created a separate non-profit organization for the administration of the CDA Credential. The Council for Early Childhood Professional Recognition was founded to administer the CDA program. In 2003, The Council for Early Childhood Professional Recognition changed its name to Council for Professional Recognition. In May 2012, the Council for Early Childhood Professional Recognition announced that the CDA Credential process will be updated to include a self-paced online application process and proctored examinations at Pearson VUE testing centers. This CDA 2.0 process began on June 1, 2013. The Credential The CDA Credential is offered in four settings and is additionally available in bilingual and Spanish categories. Preschool – For candidates working with children ages three to five years of age. Infant/Toddler – For candidates working with children from birth to three years of age Family Childcare – For candidates working with children from birth to five years of age in a home-based child care center or business Home Visitor – For candidates working directly with parents/caregivers in early child care programs that conduct visits to individual homes. Military School Age – specific standards for military teachers and Family Child Care providers. In 2012, the program was expanded to include GED holders and for high school