See what local families say they need for their children across the State

Family Stories

Birth to Five Illinois is on a mission to shift the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) landscape across Illinois by centering the voices and experiences of families. Where there are families, there are stories: stories of bureaucracy and systemic shortcomings, and stories of families and children thriving in the face of compassionate providers and exemplary services. We are here for it all!

Birth to Five Illinois has created this welcoming space for parents and caregivers to share their family story of ECEC challenges and successes. It is our hope that as families share their stories, we will amplify the disparities in the system so we can work collectively and strategically to mend what is broken, while also celebrating what’s working.

If you have a story to share, please visit our submission page.

Normalizing Mental & Behavioral Health Supports – By A Latina Mom of Multiple Children & Parent of Diverse Learners

Normalizing Mental & Behavioral Health Supports – By A Latina Mom of Multiple Children & Parent of Diverse Learners

Though we approached the support as part of normal health care routines, our conservative Latino family were very judgmental and didn't agree with our choice due to the stigma that surrounds this topic.

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