PDO-Offered Free Pediatric First Aid/CPR Discontinued July 1, 2025

OCDEL has announced that ECE PDOs will no longer offer free Pediatric First Aid and CPR training as of July 1, 2025. Providers will now be responsible for securing their own training. This change aligns with PDOs’ focus on credit-bearing professional development.

NAEYC Accreditation Changes Impact Alternate Pathway Providers in Keystone STARS

OCDEL has released Announcement ELRC #25-01 outlining how recent changes to NAEYC’s accreditation system—now a tiered model—will affect providers using NAEYC as an Alternate Pathway to STAR 4 in Keystone STARS. NAEYC's tiered changes took effect March 3, 2025. Changes to STAR 4 - Alternate Pathway designation via NAEYC began July 1, 2025.

CDA Renewal Amnesty Ends July 31, 2025

If your CDA Credential has expired, now’s your chance to renew without starting over. The CDA Renewal Amnesty Program is available for a limited time — don’t miss this opportunity to reinstate your credential and continue your professional journey.

CDA Pricing Changes Effective August 1, 2025

The Council for Professional Recognition has released its 2025 pricing updates for CDA applications and renewals. Be sure to review the new rates and plan accordingly for your certification journey.

NEW CDA Credential - Birth to Five

Looking to broaden your early childhood education expertise? The Council’s Birth to Five Credential offers a flexible, inclusive pathway for professionals working with children from infancy through age five. It’s a great way to deepen your knowledge and expand your career opportunities.

CDA Exam Changes Start August 1, 2025

The Council for Professional Recognition is updating the CDA Exam process:

• Exams must be scheduled within 90 days of approval
• Missed exams without rescheduling = new payment
• All exams at Pearson VUE centers only
• No more at-home testing

New Quest for Quality Podcast Episodes!



June’s episodes unpacked the STARS Standards—what’s required, what’s optional, and how to navigate the process. July kicks off with a powerful new episode on the Strengths-Based Approach in ECE, highlighting how focusing on what’s working can transform classrooms and teams!

We're also looking for feedback on the Q4Q Podcast to better serve you! We'd love if you could take a few moments to complete our short survey.

New Provider Vodcasts Available!

OCDEL has released two new vodcasts to support child care providers:

• Water Activity Training – Review key regulatory requirements for swimming, wading, and water activities.
• Tiered Inspection Summary (Tiered LIS) – Learn how to complete a Tiered Plan of Correction with helpful guidance and resources.

Watch the vodcasts and explore more resources to stay informed and confident in your compliance journey!

Health & Safety Reminders & Practices

Refresh your program's cleaning practices and update important safety information this summer with these resources.

• Directors: Review and print Safety Data Sheets for an essential understanding on safely handling products in your child care program.

• Staff: Access information on the safe use of bleach or effective alternatives in disinfection and sanitization.



• Families: Encourage families to explore healthier cleaning alternatives and promote a greener environment this summer.