The six CDA Competency Standards P R OF E SI NAL and ...

1 The six CDA Competency Standards and thirteen Functional AreasThe six CDA Competency Standards , outlined by the Council for Professional Recognition, are the framework of the CDA Credential professional development process. These Standards are the criteria used by the Council to assess the CDA Candidate s performance to determine the credentialing six CDA Competency Standards are expanded upon in further detail within the thirteen Functional Areas. The thirteen Functional Areas describe the major responsibilities and objectives early care professionals must complete and understand in order to carry out the CDA Competency Standards .

2 Although the six CDA Competencies are the same for all settings (center-based, family child care, home visitor), the thirteen Functional Area definitions and sample behaviors differ for each setting and age group. To be well aware of the thirteen functional definitions and sample behaviors for the setting they work in, CDA Candidates can review the setting-specific CDA Competency Standards books: Infant-Toddler Center-Based, Preschool Center-Based, Family Child Care, or Home Visitor. CDA Candidates can access the CDA Competency Standards books from the Council for Professional Recognition s website.

3 CDA Competency Standards and Functional AreasCDA Competency Standard I To establish and maintain a safe, healthy learning environmentFunctional Areas:1. Safe2. Healthy3. Learning EnvironmentCDA Competency Standard II To advance physical and intellectual competenceFunctional Areas: 4. Physical5. Cognitive6. Communicative7. Creative CDA Competency Standard III To support social and emotional development and to provide positive guidanceFunctional Areas:8. Self9. Social10. Guidance CDA Competency Standard IVTo establish positive and productive relationships with familiesFunctional Area:11. FamiliesCDA Competency Standard VTo ensure a well-run, purposeful program responsive to participant needsFunctional Area:12.

4 Program ManagementCDA Competency Standard VITo maintain a commitment to professionalism Functional Area:13. ProfessionalismCOUNCIL FOR PROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION EXPIRES 12/19 by funds from the Office of Child Development and Early Learning, jointly overseen by the Departments of Human Services and publication is available in alternative media on State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran C.

5 Mincemoyer, , Better Kid Care Program Director 2182 Sandy Drive Suite 204 State College, PA 16803 2018 The Pennsylvania State University