Next Steps After Your CDA Certificate - post

You finished your CDA certificate, congrats! 🎉 Now you might be thinking, “What do I do next?” The steps after the CDA matter because they help you use your credential at work, plan for renewal, and grow your career without stress. This guide shares simple, clear next steps you can start today. #CDA #EarlyChildhoodEducation #ProfessionalDevelopment

✅ What should you do right after you complete your CDA certificate?

Start with quick steps that keep you organized and ready for anything.

Do these first:

• Save your CDA certificate (download it and print it if you can)

• Make a backup copy (email it to yourself or save it in the cloud)

• Write down your CDA setting (Preschool, Infant/Toddler, or Family Child Care)

• Create a folder on your phone or computer called “CDA”

To stay organized, use this ChildCareEd resource:
https://www.childcareed.com/r-00709-cda-next-steps-tracker.html ✅

📌 How do you update your resume after earning a CDA?

Your CDA should be easy for employers to notice. Update it in all the places you use to apply for jobs.

Update:

• Your resume

• Job applications

• Professional profiles (if you have one)

Simple resume line:

• Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential – [Your Setting]

Tip: If you speak more than one language, you can also add that on your resume. Many programs value bilingual staff.

💬 Can you use your CDA to ask for a raise or promotion?

Yes. A CDA shows you completed training and met professional standards. It’s a great reason to ask about growth.

Try saying:

• “Now that I completed my CDA, can we talk about a raise?”

• “Are there lead teacher roles I can work toward?”

• “Can I take on more responsibility in the classroom?”

Bring:

• Your CDA certificate

• A short list of skills you learned (like guidance, health and safety, and lesson planning)

Keep the conversation friendly and confident.

🧠 What should you learn after the CDA to keep growing?

Your CDA is a strong foundation. Next, focus on skills that help you every day.

Helpful next learning goals:

• Stronger classroom routines

• Positive behavior guidance

• Better communication with families

• Health and safety refreshers

• Leadership skills (teamwork, coaching, problem-solving)

Tip: Pick one goal at a time so it feels doable. #ChildCareEd

🗓️ When should you start planning for CDA renewal?

Start early. Renewal is easier when you keep good records the whole time.

Easy habits that help:

• Save training certificates as you earn them

• Track hours and dates in one place

• Set a calendar reminder every 6 months

This helps you avoid rushing later.

🎓 What courses can help after your CDA certificate?

Many educators take more training after earning their CDA to stay current and prepare for renewal.

Here are 3 ChildCareEd courses related to CDA renewal (choose the one that matches your CDA setting):

• CDA Preschool Renewal
  https://www.childcareed.com/courses-cda-preschool-renewal.html

• CDA Infant/Toddler Renewal
  https://www.childcareed.com/courses-cda-infant-toddler-renewal.html

• CDA Family Child Care Renewal
  https://www.childcareed.com/courses-cda-family-child-care-renewal.html

Tip: Staying in the same setting keeps your renewal plan simple.

💰 Are scholarships or reimbursement available after you earn your CDA?

Yes! Many programs still help pay for training even after you earn your CDA.

Places to check:

• Your employer (reimbursement, bonuses, or paid training)

• Local scholarships for early childhood educators

• Workforce development training support

• Quality improvement programs

Questions to ask:

• “Do you reimburse CDA renewal training?”

• “Do we have scholarships for professional development?”

• “What proof do you need from me?”

Always save receipts and certificates.

🧾 What should you keep in your CDA folder for the future?

A simple folder can save you hours later.

Keep:

• Your CDA certificate or award notice

• Training certificates (new and old)

• Receipts (if using reimbursement)

• Notes about your setting and age group

• Renewal planning notes

Use this tracker to make it easy:
https://www.childcareed.com/r-00709-cda-next-steps-tracker.html 📂

📚 Where can you find a simple CDA next steps checklist?

If you want a quick checklist you can follow, this ChildCareEd resource is a great tool:
https://www.childcareed.com/r-00709-cda-next-steps-tracker.html

It helps you stay organized, plan ahead, and feel confident about what to do next.

📲 Follow ChildCareEd for tips and reminders

Want quick tips, training reminders, and support for your career?

👉 Follow ChildCareEd on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/childcareed/

You worked hard for your CDA certificate. Now use it to grow, stay ready, and keep moving forward—one step at a time. #CDA #ChildCareTraining #ProfessionalDevelopment