The Child Development Associate (CDA) credential is an important milestone for early childhood educators. It provides both a pathway to professional growth and a way to improve the quality of care provided to children. For Fatima Hamad, a Lead Mentor in the Early Childhood Mentor Networks and an Education Consultant with the UNM Early Childhood Services Center, the CDA credential represents a key to unlocking opportunities for educators and their communities.
Fatima, who has been involved with the Early Childhood Mentor Networks since its inception in 2015, explains that the CDA credential “opens the door for teachers to pursue their education.” Many educators enter the field with limited access to higher education, and the CDA credential offers a practical, accessible path to enhance their knowledge and skills. Through its comprehensive focus on early childhood development, the credential aligns with the same core competencies of college and university degrees, offering a foundational understanding of child growth, behavior, and effective teaching strategies.
In Fatima’s view, the Credential does more than elevate professional standards — it changes perceptions. “When teachers earn the CDA, they’re no longer seen as just babysitters,” she shares. “It builds respect from parents and peers and enhances educators’ confidence.” Fatima also notes the Credential’s role in increasing pay and career advancement, empowering teachers to provide higher-quality care and contribute meaningfully to their programs’ success.
As a mentor, Fatima celebrates the ripple effect of the CDA credential. In a unique role created for her within the Early Childhood Mentor Networks, she supports new CDA applicants, a process teachers usually navigate alone. By guiding a cohort of educators through observations, portfolios, and other requirements, she helps them succeed, strengthening New Mexico’s children, families, and communities.
Ready to grow your career in early childhood education? The Early Childhood Mentor Networks and CDA Assessments Voucher program provides the support, skills, and resources to help you succeed. Learn how these resources can open doors to new possibilities and help advance your career.
