The document discusses the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. It summarizes that the CDA represents expert consensus on what early childhood educators should know and do. It is recognized across early childhood settings in the US. The CDA helps ensure educator competence by requiring both education and experience, including coursework, work experience, an observation, and exam. Maintaining educator competence is important as the field demands higher quality and accountability. The CDA provides a pathway to learning best practices and meeting professional standards.