This course advances early childhood educators toward earning the Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential, awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition. Recognized by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). As a foundational step in professional growth, the course supports candidates in demonstrating competence across the CDA Competency Standards and functional areas. Through instructor-guided reflection, professional portfolio development, and peer collaboration, students synthesize their knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices, articulate a personal teaching philosophy, and demonstrate readiness for the CDA Verification Visit and Exam. Emphasis is placed on professional documentation, evidence-based practice, and ethical decision-making in early care and education. By the end of the course, candidates will have completed a CDA Professional Portfolio aligned with credentialing requirements. Note: Completion of this course does not result in the award of the CDA Credential itself. The CDA is not an academic degree or college credential. The CDA is granted separately by the Council for Professional Recognition upon successful completion of all Council requirements. (3 billable contact hrs)