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.
Early Intervention Shortage – By Anonymous
As a mom of three, I have learned that all children grow in their own little ways.
There is Hope in the Struggle – By Samantha Balentyne
We have been very blessed and have not had any issues with child care in our community.
We Do Care - Anginette Washington
Children can start school at an earlier age in Chicago versus DeKalb, and there are major slot gaps for families needing care.
It Takes a Village - Aseret Loveland
Finding reliable child care in the Illinois Valley feels like an impossible task for working parents—and it shouldn’t have to be.
Jumpstart to the Rescue - Breyania Strong & Family
My family has been through a lot recently, and I am so grateful to have the Jumpstart program to lean on when I need help being “mom”.
Positive Pediatric Experience - By Kristina and Nester
My son was born premature at 4lbs 6oz through an emergency C-section, which then required a transfer for both of us to a hospital outside our area.
My Experience with the Programs - Tenesha Cooper
I was able to get approved and enrolled for the SIUE Head Start program in Belleville after being placed on the waiting list…
Foundations of Hope: How Early Education Changed Our Path – By Latrese Luton
One challenge my family has faced with Early Childhood Education and Care services in our community is access and affordability.
A Family of 3 Amazing Boys – By Michelle Strom
The joys of two working parents raising a family of three boys in an area that has limited resources is never for the weak. If that got your attention, keep on reading!
Needing More Help in the Mackinaw Area – By Anonymous
Our area doesn’t really offer early childhood education.
Finding an Outlet – By HopeElizabeth S
We have had a hard time finding easy access to children's programs that would benefit our baby (9 months) and toddler (2 years) and keep him engaged.
Creating Our Own Support System - By Anonymous
It has been heart breaking to be questioned by professionals, told what they can offer is not what we want or that we have the “best” provider they can offer despite it not aligning with our values for care.
It Takes An Army – By Tateana
I've tried to put my daughter in daycare, but they all had a waiting list.
Region 50: What Families Say They Need
"Finding a program that had an opening was hard but once they found out that my child had a special need, they would start explaining all the reasons why they wouldn't be the best fit…"
Region 35: What Families Say They Need
"We are a two-income household, working in education, and it is still a struggle. There are not a lot of options for child care centers and most home child care providers are filled."
Region 17: What Families Say They Need
"Transportation is a big issue. A lot of programs in districts are half day and parents work full-time. What do parents do?"
Region 16: What Families Say They Need
"It's so hard to find good care for an affordable price that covers actual working hours for the average person… not just 9:00am – 5:00pm, but all shifts."
Region 12: What Families Say They Need
"…we simply need more local, quality, and affordable access to everything every day — child care, medical resources, community programs, and so much more."
Is It Any Wonder? - By Anonymous
…when someone asks me “how did you do it?” I do not have an answer.
What We Need - Danielle Jackson
It is cheaper for me to drive 1,100 miles a month to take my kids to my family to watch them…