The Council for Professional Recognition has introduced an exciting new opportunity for early educators: the Birth to Five CDA Credential. Designed to streamline the credentialing process for those working with multiple age groups, this new option recognizes the full continuum of early childhood - from infants to preschoolers - under one comprehensive certification.
But as CDA pathways evolve, so should your preparation. That’s where CDA with CLASS® comes in.
Why the Birth to Five Credential Matters
Until now, educators in a multi-age setting often had to complete multiple CDA preparation programs - one for infants and toddlers and another for preschoolers. Each required separate applications, fees, and verification visits.
The Birth to Five CDA Credential changes that. It gives educators the chance to demonstrate their knowledge and skills within birth-to-five center settings without repeating costly or time-consuming steps.
This shift signals something powerful: early learning quality depends on consistency and connection across all ages - and that’s where the CLASS® tool comes in.
How CDA with CLASS® Aligns with the Birth to Five Credential
Teachstone’s CDA with CLASS® program has always gone beyond checklists and compliance. It helps educators not just earn a credential - but transform their daily interactions with children.
Because our courses have always addressed development from birth through age five, educators enrolled in CDA with CLASS® are already aligned with the Council’s new credential pathway. Whether you’re preparing for Infant-Toddler, Pre-K, Family Child Care, or the new Birth to Five CDA, CDA with CLASS® ensures you’re ready with:
- Integrated, evidence-based content that connects CDA standards to real-world classroom practice
- Flexible online learning - choose on-demand or facilitated formats that fit your schedule
- CLASS-based strategies proven to improve child outcomes and elevate teaching quality.
- Comprehensive portfolio support to help you meet all CDA requirements without confusion or duplication.
Be Ready for What’s Next in Early Childhood Education
The introduction of the Birth to Five CDA Credential marks a turning point in early childhood professional development. It reflects the field’s growing understanding that high-quality education begins and continues with meaningful educator-child interactions across age groups.
With CDA with CLASS®, you’ll prepare to earn the credentials and gain the classroom confidence to make a difference across the entire birth-to-five spectrum.
