How to Become a Child Development Associate Trainer

Childhood development associates conduct therapy with young children in a variety of settings. Whether working with children in their homes, in a clinical setting or in other locations, these professionals are skilled in the healthy development of children. A trainer for child development associates, or CDAs, is skilled and experienced in the field of childhood development. Trainers have benefits such as higher salaries that range between $40,000 to $50,000 a year and the rewards of passing on knowledge to younger CDA that make the career a rewarding path.

Determine if a CDA training job is the best option. CDA trainers must have patience to deal with young children and students. Not only must trainers have patience, but they must explain concepts about childhood development that are sometimes difficult for students to understand.

Obtain childhood development associate credentials. Every state has different regulations, but it generally requires working with children for 480 hours or more, a high school diploma or an equivalent and 120 hours of formal child care education. Some states or employers may also require a degree in a child development field.

Gain work experience as a childhood development associate. Training others requires practical work experience. Keep up with education, such as taking new courses as they become available or looking at new child development research. Trainers should work for a minimum of 5 years before starting to train others, though longer work experience is usually preferred.

Provide field training to CDA candidates. This type of field training is required of all candidates before a CDA is completed. Teach the new candidate about childhood development and the job requirements. Keep in mind that the candidate might not focus in the same area. For example, a CDA that works with abused children might end up field training a candidate that plans to work with childhood trauma instead.

Apply for a CDA training position. Having a degree in childhood development is ideal for a trainer, but 5 to 10 years of experience as a CDA can be just as beneficial.