See What Local Families and Community Members Say They Need for Their Children Across the State
Family & Community Stories
Birth to Five Illinois has created a space for families and community members in every Illinois Region to share their experiences with local Early Childhood programs and services. Through stories about challenges and successes, we can identify the issues and work collectively to mend what is broken, while also celebrating what is working.
Child Care Gaps in Our Community – By Ashlyn Kuelling
As a parent, it is difficult to describe the guilt and anxiety that comes with not always knowing if your children have a stable, safe place to go while you are at work.
An Hour Commute – By Kenzie Holste
The hour commute before and after work most days turns a typical 8:00am – 4:30pm job into a 7:00am – 5:30pm day away from our home.
From Being in the Dark to Joining the Family Council: A Parent's Perspective – By Juliet Moderow
This is one of the reasons why I agreed to be on the Birth to Five Illinois Family Council - to learn about the processes and help parents find these resources better.
The Chaos Clan – Abbie
It worked so well for her, and having someone come to our house was amazing.
The Sooner the Better – Maria Limon
I am glad I was able to get the services my child needed just in time, all thanks to the help and guidance from the Early Childhood Educator.
Post COVID Child Care – By Alison Vrana
I hope that this new resource helps families find child care providers more easily and helps those providers connect with families in need.
Child Care Success – By Hannah Miller-Hosseini
Our family has had the opportunity to attend a wonderful, home-based child care facility in our hometown.
Starting Over – By Karen Jacobs
Immigration offers opportunities, but it also requires sacrifice, resilience, and adaptability.
Everyone Wants to Hold the Baby, but Who is Holding the Family? - By Tanya Blackshear
My role is to help create that layer of support within the community: holding the people who are holding parents, who are holding babies.
Building a Village When Systems Fall Short – By Cynthia
During that time, we navigated long waitlists, limited program options, and frequent schedule adjustments to provide our children with as much stability as possible.
Every Family and Every Child Deserves Their Own Island of Safety – By Jasmine Carroll
Some families have no one to rely on, and I’m humbled to be a person of support; it fills my bucket, too.
Your Voice Has Power – By Maxine
When I think of my story, I think of when I became a mother.
Stronger Together – By Anonymous
When I started having children of my own, I promised myself I would not be like my parents.
How This Experience Shaped Me as a Mother and Advocate – By Kalika Tebbe
Watching her grow in an environment built to help her thrive has made every mile worth it.
The Lasting Impact – By Amy Johnson
Unfortunately, due to illness and the COVID-19 pandemic, my two youngest children were unable to participate.
Grateful for Early Intervention - By Jordan Spicklemire
I am forever grateful for these services and hope that by sharing my story more families can take advantage of these services to support their own children’s needs.
Being a Foster Parent is Hard; Family Council Helps – By Tia
Joining the Birth to Five Illinois Family Council has allowed my voice to be heard and has provided me the confidence to begin my own foster support group.
Yes, but Who is His REAL Mom? - By Ashlie Zwilling
I have always felt valid and important as a parent in the education system.
Family Council Impact: Region 51
"I'm very thankful joining the Council because I was able to grow as a mother."