Begin working with children in your preferred setting. A CDA credential is a validation of your knowledge and experience, but it is not necessary to secure a job as a teacher's aide in most daycare centers. To obtain a CDA credential, you must accumulate 420 hours working with children in your desired setting. Regular employment in that setting will start you on your way.
Enroll in childcare courses. Many community colleges offer CDA courses. You must accumulate 120 clock hours over five years in order to be eligible for a CDA credential. You can meet this requirement by taking a semester's worth of college courses. You can also check for free and discounted classes offered by local human services departments.
Once you have accumulated the necessary experience and education, purchase a CDA Application Package from the CDA Council. You will find all of your application paperwork, as well as your requirements for your portfolio and the the CDA Assessment Observation Instrument forms.
Distribute parent information questionnaires to parents of children in your center. These form will be included in your application packet.
Schedule your observation with a local advisor who will observe you as you interact with children in your care. The advisor's observation will be included with a completed application packet.
Submit your completed application packet along with the required fee.