Program Details - AI Career Institute

Program Overview

reer Institute prepares early childhood professionals to meet the educational requirements for earning the national CDA Credential from the Council for Professional Recognition. Participants complete 120 clock hours of formal education, complete a Professional Portfolio and receive support to successfully complete the CDA exam and Verification Visit.

The CDA program at AI Ca

Program Goals

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

Safe Learning Environment

Establish and maintain a safe, healthy learning environment for children

Physical & Intellectual Development

Advance physical and intellectual competence in young learners

Social & Emotional Support

Support social and emotional development using positive guidance

Family Relationships

Foster productive relationships with families and communities

Program Management

Ensure a well-run, responsive educational program

Professionalism

Demonstrate a commitment to professionalism and ethics

Program Information

Duration: 200 Hours

Schedule: Monday - Friday

Certification: CDA Credential Eligible

Format: In-Person

Prerequisites

Minimum 18 years of age
High School Diploma or GED
Pass TABE test (Reading & Math) with 8.0 grade level or higher
Currently working or volunteering in a child care setting

Materials & Resources

CDA Competency Standards Book
Teacher-developed handouts
Sample lesson plans & assessment tools
Family engagement templates
Online portfolio builder access
Optional: CPR/First Aid module

What You'll Achieve

CDA Credential Eligibility

Become eligible to apply for the nationally recognized CDA Credential

Exam Preparation

Be fully prepared to schedule and take the CDA Exam with confidence

Verification Visit Ready

Complete the Verification Visit process with a PD Specialist

Career Opportunities

Receive support in applying for jobs in licensed child care centers and Head Start programs

Child Development Associate Program