CDA Positive Guidance & Behavior 2

Question 1

A 3-year-old has a tantrum when it's time to leave the playground. What is the MOST developmentally appropriate response?

Accepted Answer

Acknowledge the child's feelings, maintain the transition, and offer a brief warning next time

Answer

Acknowledging feelings while maintaining boundaries and using transition warnings supports the child's emotional development and self-regulation.

Question 2

Which guidance strategy is MOST aligned with the CDA competency area on social-emotional development?

Accepted Answer

Natural and logical consequences that are related, respectful, and reasonable

Answer

Natural and logical consequences help children understand the connection between their behavior and outcomes, building internal motivation and responsibility.

Question 3

Two children are arguing over the same truck. Before intervening, the CDA professional should:

Accepted Answer

Observe briefly to see if they can resolve it themselves

Answer

Briefly observing gives children the opportunity to practice conflict resolution skills before adult intervention, which supports social problem-solving development.

Question 4

What is the purpose of stating classroom expectations as positive statements (e.g., 'Walking feet inside' instead of 'No running')?

Accepted Answer

It tells children what TO do, which is clearer and more motivating than what not to do

Answer

Positive expectations tell children exactly what behavior is desired, making it easier to comply and reinforcing the specific behavior the adult wants.

Question 5

A child consistently hits other children when frustrated. The MOST effective long-term guidance strategy is:

Accepted Answer

Teaching and practicing alternative strategies for expressing frustration (words, breathing, walking away)

Answer

Teaching and practicing replacement behaviors gives children the skills they need to manage frustration without hitting — addressing the root cause, not just the symptom.

(CDA) Child Development Associate Practice Test

(CDA) Child Development Associate Practice Test

CDA Positive Guidance & Behavior 2