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.
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.
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.
Summer Child Care – By Toree
Trying to find child care in my area that aligns with my schedule and pay scale has been so hard.
Child Care Crisis Causing Families to Be Unable to Work – By Anonymous
The grant is a band aid, helping in one area, but it is not a one solution fix all.
Two Weeks to Forever – By Camilla Bauer
“It will only be two weeks” was the phrase I kept hearing when I agreed to open my home to a sister duo.
Finding Direction Without a Map – By Lacie-Jane Yarnell
There is no local transportation for this type of service in our area.
Choosing to Be the Good: A Story of Resilience, Faith, and Family – By Kathleen Cousineau
I have always believed in being the good I wished to see in the world.
A Birth Story Far from Home – By Anonymous
My pregnancy was high-risk, and the nearest Level 3 NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) able to care for babies born before 32 weeks was 68 miles away in Missouri…
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.