Child development certificationUnited States

Child Development Specialist (CDS)

Council for Professional Recognition

What parents should know

Credential validating expertise in child development principles and practices. Focuses on developmental milestones, screening, and support for children and families.

Coaching is not therapy

Parenting coaching focuses on goal-setting, skill-building, and moving forward. It is not a substitute for therapy or mental health treatment. Coaches with therapy licenses may offer coaching services separately from their clinical practice.

Requirements

Relevant education, professional experience, credentialing process

Child Development Specialist (CDS) is a credential of Council for Professional Recognition. The Parenting Passport is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Council for Professional Recognition. Information on this page is sourced from publicly available materials.

At a glance

Issued by
Council for Professional Recognition
Region
United States
Regulation
Not government-regulated
Requirements
Relevant education, professional experience, credentialing process
Official website

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Child Development Specialist (CDS): What Parents Need to Know | The Parenting Passport