The child development associate credential is the basic credential for childcare providers. Because of the many steps involved and a lack of clear guidance, obtaining it can be difficult. Accordingly, many applicants drop out of the process.

The CDA Prep Guide gives childcare providers and center directors, whose programs need to meet CDA standards for any staff to hold the credential, clear guidance on how to navigate the process. It also points out key program standards in thirteen functional areas, from safety to program management, and answers commonly-asked questions.