CDA Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CDA facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. In which situation should a CDA professional NOT delay making a report of suspected abuse? → When a child discloses abuse directly or shows clear physical indicators
2. To maintain objectivity in written observations, educators should: → Describe only what is seen and heard without making judgments
3. Teaching children about body safety and personal boundaries is an example of which type of abuse prevention strategy? → Primary prevention
4. Who is typically responsible for investigating a report of suspected child abuse filed by a CDA professional? → Local law enforcement or child protective services
5. What is an ethical way to address a parent's concern about their child's development? → Provide them with detailed and accurate observations
6. Which of the following activities supports bilateral coordination in preschoolers? → Cutting with scissors, stringing beads, and clapping patterns
7. Which of the following is the most effective strategy for preventing child abuse in a child care program? → Establishing an open-door policy that allows families to visit unannounced
8. What is an effective way to ensure inclusivity in a childcare setting? → Incorporate materials and activities that represent various cultures
9. Which material is MOST appropriate to include in a preschool science center? → Magnifying glasses, nature specimens, and recording journals
10. A teacher notices the dramatic play area is rarely used. What is the BEST first step? → Add new, culturally relevant props that reflect children's home experiences
11. A CDA professional collects photos, work samples, and observation notes for each child. This collection is called a: → Portfolio
12. The recommended supervision ratio for preschool-aged children (3-5 years) in most group care settings is: → 1 adult per 8-10 children (depending on state licensing)
13. How can caregivers promote problem-solving skills in children? → Encourage them to explore multiple solutions to a challenge
14. Which Piagetian stage is characterized by symbolic play and rapid language growth but also egocentrism? → Preoperational
15. Which of the following is an example of an open-ended material that encourages creativity? → A box of various recycled materials, glue, and scissors.
16. What is a key component of a positive arrival routine for a toddler? → A warm, personal greeting from the caregiver and an engaging activity to join.
17. Emotional abuse in early childhood most commonly includes which of the following? → Persistent criticism, threats, rejection, or humiliation directed at a child
18. Which approach to early literacy focuses on understanding that spoken words are made up of individual sounds? → Phonological awareness
19. Continuing professional development is important for CDA professionals because: → It ensures educators stay current with research, best practices, and evolving standards
20. In an inclusive classroom, a child with a disability participates in all activities with appropriate supports. This is consistent with which principle? → Full inclusion and least restrictive environment
21. A CDA professional notices that a parent frequently demeans their child with harsh words at drop-off. This is most likely an indicator of: → Emotional abuse
22. Which of the following is an example of a strength-based approach when communicating with families? → 'Your child is learning to negotiate with peers — we're supporting that growth.'
23. Which of the following is an example of a gross motor skill? → Riding a tricycle
24. Which attachment style is associated with a consistent, warm, and responsive caregiver? → Secure attachment
25. All of the following are examples of natural disasters EXCEPT for which? → Bicycle accident
26. A parent expresses concern about their child's lack of friends in the class. What is the most effective first response? → “Thank you for sharing that. Can you tell me more about what you've observed?”
27. A teacher uses a checklist to document which skills a child has demonstrated. The primary limitation of this method is that it: → Only indicates presence or absence of a skill, not the quality or context
28. Which activity best supports cognitive development in preschoolers? → Solving puzzles and engaging in hands-on problem-solving tasks
29. How should a caregiver respond when a child expresses frustration during a task? → Acknowledge their feelings and provide support to work through the task
30. Which of the following activities best promotes the development of a preschooler's gross motor skills? → Hopping on one foot across the room