Online CDA Classes and CEU Course Information


Learn More About Our Online Classes

We are now partnering with (AST, Inc./Smarthorizons™) to bring to you online CDA classes and training that includes CEUs. An annual subscription includes access to over 120 hours of CDA Classes. The  classes are in the required competency areas for those pursuing their Child Development Associate Credential. These classes may be used for anyone needing CEU credits as well. These CDA classes provide a variety of engaging topics designed specifically for the child care professional. Courses are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Take the courses you need or want when YOU want to!

Please note: Child Care Lounge only offers the classes and does NOT grant the CDA credential!

You must follow the requirements set forth by the Council for Professional Development. Additionally, the Council has other fees for obtaining the CDA. These fees are not included in the class enrollment. Click Here for an overview of the steps to obtain a CDA Credential. 

(Child Care Lounge provides the education needed for application eligibility).

Each subscription enrollment is for one year and allows unlimited access to all of the classes in that catalog. Subscriptions include course and tech support.

  • OPTION 1 - $319
    CDA Candidate: (120 clock hours - 12 CEUs) - Click here to View Catalog. Click here to Preview Classes.
  • OPTION 2 - $169.00 
    CDA renewal or classes for CEU credit: (45 clock hours - 4.5 CEUs). Click here to view Renewal/CEU Catalog.

Click here to learn about CDA Classes from Child Care Lounge
Click here to learn about CDA Renewal Classes from Child Care Lounge

More Resources

Frequently Asked Questions - CDA and CDA Renewal

Can I apply the courses to my CDA training requirements?
Yes, the courses were designed specifically to meet the training requirements for the CDA. The courses can also be used for CDA renewal training requirements. If you want to use this subscription towards annual in-service hours, please check with your state licensing representative or QRS program first.

Can I take all 120 hours of training for $319.00?
Yes, you have access to all training courses for one year including new courses that are added to the course catalog during your subscription period.

How does the CDA enrollment process work?
Enrolling in our CDA classes is different than enrolling in our individual classes. Once we receive your payment, you will be sent an email with the terms of agreement. This email needs to be replied to, informing us that you agree to the terms and you are ready to start. After your confirmation of the terms, you will receive your class log-in information within 72 hours.

How do I get a completion certificate when I finish a course?
You can print the certificate after successfully completing a course with a score of 70 percent or higher. Go to the "My Courses" page (the page you see when you first log in) and select "My Courses". When the list of courses you have enrolled in appears, look for the title of the course you completed and click on the small certificate icon that appears at the end of the course title. The certificate will open and allow you to print it. Note: You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader (download link provided free) to view and print the certificate.

Once I start a course, do I need to finish it before I log out, if I don't have time to finish it?
No, you can log out at any time. The system will bookmark (remember) where you stopped. When you reenter the course, it will take up where it left off.

Can I get a refund if I withdraw BEFORE you login AND request a refund within 30 days of ordering. If you wish to request a refund, please fill out the Refund Request Form.

What else do I need to do besides take these classes? 
Click Here for an overview of the steps to obtain a CDA Credential. (Child Care Lounge provides the Formal Training listed in Step 2. You will have to complete the other requirements through the CDA Council.)

Who can I contact if I have questions concerning this training opportunity?
A help line is available during normal working hours, 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM CST, Monday - Friday. Call 1-800-261-6248 or e-mail info@smarthorizons.org

Can I get college credit with this program?
Child care professionals who complete the Smart Horizons training program and earn their CDA National Credential or the Florida Child Care Professional Certificate (FCCPC) can be awarded college level credit through NSU's™ Fischler School. View announcement and details!