Joyce Doughty has been awarded a Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential in recognition of outstanding work with children.

A lead teacher at the Suffolk Children’s Center, Doughty was awarded the credential by the Council for Professional Recognition in Washington, D.C., which represents the early childhood education profession.

CDA is the only major national effort to improve childcare by evaluation and recognizing the skills of individuals providing care.

The first credential was awarded 25 years ago, and now 46 states plus the District of Columbia include CDA in their childcare licensing regulations.

Parents who use childcare are especially concerned today about their children’s welfare. With this in mind, as part of the CDA assessment process, every candidate for the program is observed working with children or families by an early childhood professional.

In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the ability to work with families to develop children’s physical and intellectual capabilities in a safe and healthy learning environment.

Child care staff and parents wanting information on CDA should write to the Council for Professional Recognition at 2460 16th St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009-3575, or call (202) 265-9090 or 1(800) 424-4310.

Doughty is employed as a lead teacher at the Suffolk Children’s Center.