WILTON – Donna Eaton of Farmington and Robin Chaput of Strong have both been awarded a Child Development Associate credential in recognition of outstanding work with young children. The credential was awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition in Washington, D.C., which represents the early childhood profession.

Eaton and Chaput are contracted child care providers with Community Concepts Children’s Services in Franklin County. They each provide services for the Head Start and Early Head Start programs through family child care. As part of the CDA assessment process, every candidate for the CDA credential is observed working with young children or families by an early childhood professional. In addition, candidates must demonstrate the ability to work with families to develop children’s physical and intellectual capabilities in a safe and healthy learning environment.

CDA is a major national effort to improve child care by evaluating and recognizing the skills of individuals providing care. The first credential was awarded 25 years ago, and 46 states plus the District of Columbia include CDA in their child care licensing regulations.

For information about Head Start Programs or family child care, contact Community Concepts’ offices in Wilton at 645-9512.