TheoryCDA Child Care Practice Questions
Free CDA Child Care practice questions with answers and plain-English explanations. Browse the PDF, video and online mock test.
CDA Child Care Questions
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Q1What is the single most effective practice for preventing the spread of illness in a child care classroom?
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✓ Correct answer: Frequent, thorough handwashing with soap and running water
Handwashing physically removes germs and is the most effective, evidence-based way to reduce disease transmission in group care settings.
Q2When should a caregiver and child wash hands during the day? The BEST answer is:
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✓ Correct answer: Before eating and after toileting, diapering, or wiping noses
Handwashing is required at key transition points—before food and after contact with bodily fluids—because that is when germs are most likely to spread.
Q3During diaper changing, what step best reduces the spread of germs?
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✓ Correct answer: Disinfect the changing surface after each child and wash hands afterward
The changing surface is a high-contamination point; cleaning and sanitizing it after every change plus handwashing breaks the chain of infection.
Q4To reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), infants should be placed to sleep:
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✓ Correct answer: On their backs, on a firm surface with no soft bedding
The 'Back to Sleep' guidance—back position, firm surface, no loose bedding—is the consensus pediatric standard for lowering SIDS risk.
Q5Which food is the GREATEST choking hazard for a toddler and should be modified before serving?
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✓ Correct answer: Whole grapes
Round, firm foods like whole grapes can fully block a small airway; they should be cut lengthwise into quarters for children under four.
Q6What does 'active supervision' of young children mean?
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✓ Correct answer: Positioning yourself to see and hear all children and scanning continuously
Active supervision means caregivers position, count, and scan so every child is seen and heard at all times, preventing injury.
Q7A safe outdoor play area for young children should have:
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✓ Correct answer: A cushioned surface such as mulch or rubber under climbing equipment
Impact-absorbing surfacing under and around climbers reduces fall injuries, the leading cause of playground harm.
Q8Why does a quality program practice fire and emergency drills regularly?
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✓ Correct answer: So children and staff can evacuate calmly and quickly in a real emergency
Routine drills build the muscle memory that lets everyone respond automatically and safely during an actual emergency.
Q9A child has a documented severe peanut allergy. What is the program's MOST important responsibility?
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✓ Correct answer: Keep an individualized care plan and emergency medication accessible, and prevent exposure
Severe allergies require a written action plan, ready access to prescribed epinephrine, staff training, and strict avoidance to prevent anaphylaxis.
Q10Which meal best reflects healthy nutrition guidance for preschoolers?
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✓ Correct answer: A balanced plate with fruit, vegetable, whole grain, and a protein source
Balanced meals across food groups support growth, energy, and healthy eating habits, consistent with child nutrition program standards.
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