In the Initial Childcare I-BEST you get the education you need to begin work in a childcare or early learning setting.  In this section you will study:

• EDUC 100 Introduction to Child Care, 2 credits:  This section meets the 20 Hour STARS basic training requirement for Washington State child care providers.  It introduces basic topics in early learning. 

• EDUC 121 Health, Nutrition, and Safety, 3 credits:  Students earn certificates in First Aid, CPR, food handlers, and Bloodborne Pathogens, as well as important information on keeping children healthy and safe in a childcare setting.  

• EDUC 143 Environments for Learning, 3 credits:  You will study how to set up classrooms and choose materials to best support children's learning.  You will also study the teacher's role in facilitating play experiences.  

• EDUC 162 Child Abuse and Neglect, 2 credits:  You will learn to recognize child abuse and neglect as well as gain an understanding of your responsibilities as a teacher and community resources available to families.

• EDUC 140 Cooperative Education, 3 credits:  You will have an opportunity to observe and participate with children and teachers in action at a licensed childcare program.

• Adult Basic Education (ABE) or English as a Second Language (ESL), 5 credits:  The focus of these sections is to offer all students the opportunity to improve and/or refine reading, writing and study skills.