Looking to work in childcare in California? CPR and First Aid certification isn’t just helpful, it’s required. If you’re a daycare provider, preschool teacher, nanny, or run a licensed childcare facility, the state of California mandates specific training before you can legally care for children.
In this post, we’ll break down exactly what’s required, who needs certification, how to get it, and where to take CPR and First Aid classes in San Diego and across Southern California.
Why CPR & First Aid Training is Required for Childcare Providers
California law, through the Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA), requires that licensed childcare providers complete Pediatric CPR, First Aid, and Health & Safety training.
This training must be:
- EMSA-approved
- Taught by certified instructors
- Specific to caring for infants and children
- 16 hours minimum: 8 hours of CPR/First Aid and 8 hours of Preventative Health & Safety
These regulations are part of Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations and are enforced by licensing divisions under the Department of Social Services.
Learn more about our Pediatric CPR & First Aid certification course that fulfills this exact requirement.
Who Needs CPR and First Aid Certification in Childcare?
The following roles must meet California’s training requirements:
- Daycare and preschool staff (licensed or license-exempt)
- In-home childcare providers
- Nannies and babysitters working for licensed families
- After-school program staff
- Site supervisors and directors of childcare centers
Even if you’re not state-licensed but plan to work in a setting where you’re caring for infants or children, having this certification is often required by employers or families, and always a good idea for safety and liability.
We also offer CPR classes for parents and families who want to be prepared at home.
What Does Pediatric CPR & First Aid Training Include?
At A-B-CPR & First Aid Training Inc. in San Diego, we offer EMSA-approved courses that cover all the required topics, including:
CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)
- Infant and child CPR techniques
- Adult CPR basics
- Use of an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)
- Hands-on practice with child and infant manikins
Interested in a more advanced certification? Check out our BLS CPR for Healthcare Providers course.
First Aid
- Choking response
- Bleeding control and wound care
- Allergic reactions and anaphylaxis
- Burns, fractures, and other emergencies
- Seizures, asthma, diabetes response
Preventative Health & Safety
- Nutrition and food safety
- Medication administration
- Child abuse prevention and reporting
- Sanitation and infection control
Where Can I Take CPR Classes in San Diego?
If you’re searching for “where can I take CPR classes in San Diego?”, A-B-CPR makes it easy.
We offer in-person and blended learning options at our two San Diego County locations:
- Mission Valley (Central San Diego)
- Oceanside CPR Training Center (North County San Diego)
Our classes are designed with childcare professionals in mind and meet all California EMSA requirements for licensing.
👉 View Childcare CPR & First Aid Course Details
We also offer Group CPR Training at your school, preschool, or childcare facility anywhere in San Diego County.
Industry-Specific Certification You Can Trust
Childcare is more than just a job, it’s a responsibility. That’s why industry-specific CPR and First Aid training is so important. Our certification:
- Is recognized by California licensing agencies
- Meets OSHA safety standards
- Fulfills job and insurance requirements
- Is taught by certified, experienced instructors
- Is valid for 2 years, with CPR renewal courses available
Whether you’re a large daycare center or a solo provider, our training ensures your facility meets state regulations and your team is ready to respond in an emergency.
FAQs About Childcare CPR & First Aid Training
How long is the training?
The full course takes 16 hours total, which can be completed over two days or split into online and in-person segments for convenience.
See our Blended Learning CPR options to learn how online and in-person formats work together.
Can I take the course online?
Yes, we offer blended learning where the lecture portion is online and the hands-on skills assessment is completed in person.
Is this certification accepted by the state of California?
Yes, our course is EMSA-approved, which is required for California childcare licensing.
Ready to Get Certified?
A-B-CPR & First Aid Training Inc. has been serving San Diego since 1998. We make it simple to meet childcare training requirements, with flexible class schedules, clear guidance, and hands-on learning from instructors you can trust.
👉 Book your Pediatric CPR & First Aid class now
Or call us at (619) 281-3304 for help registering or booking group training.
