How To Earn Your CDA in Illinois?

If you're looking to build a fulfilling #career-in- #early-childhood-education, earning your Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential is one of the most important steps you can take—especially in Illinois, where quality standards for #preschool and child care #educators are high. Whether you're just starting out or looking to formalize your experience, this guide will walk you throug #h-how to earn your CDA in Illinois and how to begin your training today.

What Is the CDA Credential and Why Is It Important in Illinois?

The CDA Credential, awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition, is the most widely recognized certification for #early-childhood-educators in the U.S. In Illinois, many child care centers, Head Start programs, and #preschools either require or strongly prefer candidates with a CDA.

Earning your CDA:

• Enhances your professional credibility

• Increases job opportunities and earning potential

• Demonstrates your commitment to quality child care

• Meets licensing requirements in many Illinois settings

What Are the Steps to Earn Your CDA in Illinois?

Here’s a step-by-step overview tailored to Illinois-based educators:

Complete 120 Hours of Formal Early Childhood Education

These hours must cover eight specific subject areas outlined by the Council for Professional Recognition.

➡️ Start your training online today with cdacertification.com’s CDA courses. Our programs are:

• Illinois-compliant

• Self-paced and 100% online

• Affordable and accessible from anywhere

Gain 480 Hours of Professional Experience

You must complete 480 hours of work (paid or volunteer) with children in the age group for which you’re seeking certification—typically infants/ #toddlers, #preschoolers, or family child care.

Build a Professional Portfolio

This includes:

• Sample #lesson-plans

• Family communication logs

• Personal philosophy statement
  All of which are guided step-by-step in our cdacertification.com training modules.

Apply for the CDA Assessment

Once your training and portfolio are complete, you'll:

• Submit your application to the CDA Council

• Complete a professional verification visit

• Take the CDA exam at a local Pearson VUE testing center

Are Online CDA Courses Accepted in Illinois?

Yes. Illinois accepts online CDA training programs, as long as they meet Council and state standards.

cdacertification.com offers CDA training that fulfills:

• Illinois DCFS licensing requirements

• Council for Professional Recognition training criteria

• Flexible learning for busy educators

We also provide training for Infant/Toddler CDA, Preschool CDA, and Family Child Care CDA—so you can choose the specialization that fits your career goals.

What Support Is Available for Illinois Educators?

In Illinois, you may be eligible for:

• Gateways to Opportunity scholarships and credentials

• T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® Illinois financial assistance

• Support through your child care center or Head Start employer

These can help cover the cost of training, assessment, and continuing education.

What Happens After You Get Your CDA?

With your CDA in hand, you’ll be qualified to work in:

• Licensed child care centers

• Illinois Preschool for All programs

• Head Start and Early Head Start classrooms

• Family and group #home child care

It also sets the stage for advancing your education with associate or bachelor’s degrees in #early-childhood-education.

How Can You Stay Informed and Inspired?

Join our growing community of #early-childhood-educators!

📱 Follow ChildCareEd.com on social media for:

• Free #early-childhood education resources

• Updates on Illinois certification changes

• Inspiration and tips from other CDA professionals

• Course discounts and scholarship news

Ready to Start Your CDA Journey?

Earn your CDA the flexible, affordable way with cdacertification.com. Enroll in our online training today and take the first step toward becoming a certified child care professional in Illinois.