Council Blog
Read about what’s new and what’s important to you as a member of the ECE community.
Leveraging the CDA® as the Entry-Level Qualification for Early Learning Field:
Building Role Clarity in Early Childhood Education
For decades, the early childhood education (ECE) field has faced a persistent challenge: the lack of consistent entry-level qualifications. Despite widespread recognition that high-quality early learning experiences are critical to children’s long-term success, the workforce...
The Council for Professional Recognition Announces Forthcoming Updates to Required CDA® Education Documentation
At the Council for Professional Recognition, we are committed to ensuring the Child Development Associate® (CDA) Credential™ continues to reflect high‑quality preparation, meaningful learning, and strong alignment with career and education pathways. As part of...
A Statewide Commitment: How Hawaii’s Early Childhood Community Is Rallying Around the CDA® Credential
Hawaii faces a documented shortage of qualified early childhood educators, particularly on neighbor islands and in rural communities, leaving many children and families without access to needed care. With a shortage of licensed child care...
NEW CDA® Exam Study Guides Available
Download Your New CDA® Exam Study Guide Now! The Council for Professional Recognition, the organization that administers the CDA® credential, is excited to share the new CDA® exam study guide. This free resource uses research, standards,...
Standing on the Council’s Legacy: Celebrating Dr. Carol B. Day, an African American Woman Who Led for All
An International Women’s Day Tribute to an Early Childhood Icon International Women’s Day invites us to pause and honor women whose courage and vision have changed the course of history. In our field of early...
Busting Myths About the CDA®
Now it’s time to clear the air as families and center directors across the country call for competent educators like those who earn a CDA. This rising demand makes it important to bust the myths...
Celebrating Career and Technical Education Month® 2026: Empowering the Next Generation of Early Childhood Educators
Each February, the accomplishments of Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs and the importance of “CTE for all students of all ages” as ACTE indicates, are celebrated. CTE Month is a time to honor the...
Resolving to Serve You: CDA® Process Updates for 2026
A new year brings new opportunities to reach your professional goals. Are you looking to boost your competence and confidence as an early educator in 2026? Consider making an addition to your New Year’s resolutions:...
Year-Round Stakeholder Engagement: Planning Program Experiences Around Topics of Interest
The beginning of each new year brings new opportunities to reset and reimagine the vitality of your program and to reengage your community – children, families, and staff. It’s the perfect time to plan experiences...