BAS in Early Childhood Education

About our Program

The Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Early Childhood Education: Infant and Child Mental Health (ICMH) examines the foundations of development and the importance of relationships to the social and emotional well-being of infants, toddlers, and young children as well as quality relationships and environments that foster growth in all developmental domains—social and emotional, cognitive/linguistic, and physical. It is designed to provide relevant and much-needed training to those working with vulnerable families and children including early care and education providers, home visitors, child health providers, early interventionists, and other related fields.

The degree features close collaboration with local agencies that serve young children and families and provides a pathway for early childhood workers with a two-year degree currently employed in the field. This specialized training in infant/child mental health will enable graduates to better serve children and families, responding to the emerging needs of the diverse populations that they serve. 

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of Green River College’s BAS in Early Childhood Education graduates will have a comprehensive understanding of the field of Infant/Child Mental Health, and will be able to:

1. Apply relationship-based principles and strategies that support young children and families.
2. Assess and analyze children’s development, skills, and behavior based on culturally and developmentally appropriate practices.
3. Design and create inclusive environments that promote social/emotional learning and are responsive to the needs of all children and families including those considered vulnerable.
4. Select and apply appropriate intervention strategies for classroom management while promoting a positive emotional climate that is reflective of and responsive to the culture being served.
5. Screen, assess, and identify children with mental health challenges.
6. Demonstrate leadership abilities and collaborative skills necessary to resolve interpersonal and organizational challenges that may occur in an early childhood setting.
7. Establish and maintain connections with appropriate support services and community resources.
8. Demonstrate the ability to engage in reflective observation, consultation, and practice, and possess the ability to integrate it into the early learning setting.
9. Advocate for families and young children through service, education, and leadership.