Messages from the Movies
My mom called me up some years ago to praise a movie about a pig. As she began to mimic the pig’s squeaky little voice, I started to wonder what this meant and worried my...
My name is Donna Hayes When I started my CDA my son had just finished college and my daughter was in college. I remember the first class I said to myself oh no this is not for me to much work. I spoke with my Children when I got home and they tore into me. They said Mom you always told us to do our best, and sounds like you’re not even trying. I knew at that moment if I could preach to my kids on being 
successful, they had every right to preach to me about being successful on my job working with Children and earning my CDA. I went for it and with a lot of late night homework assignments and phone calls to my Children Arthur and Tierra Hayes on how to save my work and correct my papers. I did it. I took the test and a lady from the Council really inspired me to go further with my education. She told me I was a professional now. I encourage anyone who works with Children to go ahead and get your CDA. It is well worth it. When I received my Certificate for my Nationals in the mail, I cried I was so happy. I would also like to Thank my Director and my Assistant Director for really supporting me. Thanks Cindy and Gina.
Recently Posted:
Boosting Brains by Building a Parent Nation
It takes a village to raise a child, the old proverb tells us. But we need to expand our perspective, according to pediatric surgeon, social scientist and mom Dana Suskind. In her heartfelt work, Parent...
Advancing Early Childhood Education Competence: What is on the Horizon for the Council?
Dr. Calvin Moore shared that when he first arrived at the Council and took on the CEO role, he was focused on assessing the early childhood education (ECE) landscape, the reach of the organization and...
Sharing Gratitude During the Back-to-School Season
We have probably all seen the commercials this time of year when you can hear the popular holiday song, “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year”, playing in the background as parents dance joyously...
Marylanders: Do You Know a Pre-School Teacher Who’s Ready to Take the Next Step?
Did you know early childhood educators in Maryland have a special benefit that can help them and the children they serve? The Maryland State Department of Education has awarded a $1 million grant to the...
Education Writers Focus on Childcare Challenges
For the first time in three years, the Education Writers Association (EWA) gathered in person for their National Seminar in Orlando last month. The event drew journalists from across the country to hear from leaders...
Removing Barriers to Head Start Programs through Categorical Eligibility
In April 2022, the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) issued new guidance and an Information Memoranda (IM) announcing the long-awaited, family-friendly policy of permitting families and guardians to use proof of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program...
Invisible Child: A Spotlight on Life in the Shadows
Dasani wakes up before dawn each day at a homeless shelter in Brooklyn, New York. After slipping out from under the covers, she goes to the window. On a clear day, she can see all...
CDA® Advisory Committee Continues to Provide Guidance to the Council
The CDA Advisory Committee was created to provide insights, perspectives, and best practices to the CDA community and other early childhood professionals. Established during the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, the members’ first-hand experiences...