CDA Professional Resource File

The Professional Resource File is a set of materials that early childhood professionals use in their work.  CDA Assessment requires candidates to produce a Resource File because it is evidence of what the CDA candidate believes is valuable information to have on the job; and it is an opportunity for the CDA candidate to gain experience in identifying resources.

The completed Resource File is a tool the Early Childhood Professional can use during his/her career in early childhood education.  This tool can and should be used like a reference manual.
 

                                                                         How to Arrange the Resource File
  The finished product can be in various formats:  

                   * three-ring binder 
                   * labeled file folders in a box  

  The Resource File is a "living" document, which means
  information must be able to be added, changed, and/or
  deleted.  While there are no requirements for how the
  Resource File should look, it is important the Resource
  File be neat, organized, professional looking, portable,
  and legible.  The Resource File is something you will
  take with you to work, home visits, and meetings.  
                                            
3 Sections of the Resource File   

  Autobiography - this is the section where you write about yourself.  You first identify who; and second, you explain what influenced your decision to work with young children.  

Statements of Competence - You must write six (6) Statements of Competence based on the six Competency Goals.  You can access the CDA Competency Goals now, by clicking HERE .  You begin writing each Statement of Competence with the following six (6) Competency Goal Statements:
 
Goal 1:  To establish and maintain a safe, healthy learning environment. 
Goal 2:  To advance physical and intellectual competence.
Goal 3:  To support social and emotional development and to provide positive guidance. 
Goal 4:  To establish positive and productive relationships with families.
Goal 5:  To ensure a well-run, purposeful program responsive to participant needs.
Goal 6:  To maintain a commitment to professionalism.

 Resource Collection - This part of the Resource File consists of 17 specific items called the Resource Collection.  These items must be organized by Competency Goal areas and numbered so that each item can be located easily during the Council Representative verification visit.