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.
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.
Finding Hope! - Tina Hudson from Jacksonville
If I could leave a message for any parent concerned about their child: don’t give up. Keep seeking answers and follow your heart.
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.
Finding Support within the Community – By Katie Lisko
Growing up in a small town and moving to a bigger town has its advantages.
Early Intervention Shortage – By Anonymous
As a mom of three, I have learned that all children grow in their own little ways.
Beyond Terrible Two’s - By Anonymous
I was warned by our pediatrician that the “terrible twos” start at 18 months.
Foster Mom of a Developmentally Delayed Child and What Early Intervention Can Do – By Jessica Koker
My foster son received speech and occupational therapy services…
Collaborative Community – By Alnette Smith
A collaborative community is so important and helpful to our children who are the future of our country.
Our Village, Our Journey: Embracing the Adventure of Family and Growth – by Kelly Brooks
Although Joy is different from the other members of our village adventure, she has opened our hearts and minds to a new perspective on life.
It Takes Someone Special to Hear What a Child Cannot Say - Jessica Delmuro
I love being my own kids' advocate. I am not afraid to voice anything for my kids.
The Oz – By The Williams
A recent update to his IEP (Individualized Education Plan) noted that he is now 'chatty,' having evolved from being non-verbal to possessing impressive reading, writing, and math skills, as well as the ability to engage in full conversations.
Needing to Help Our Children - Even Through the State – By Kaitlin Perkins
Her therapist left at the end of July and the only options that Early Intervention could offer us were video appointments or traveling further than we wanted.
Overstimulation - By Anonymous
Our son was diagnosed with Autism. That's where it stopped. There were no resources or services offered, not even a list of resources.
Why Is It So Challenging to Find Mental Health Services for Children? - By Mandy Bailey
The services my family needs most is being able to get consistent, continuous services so there are no gaps in treatment plans.
Life with Taylor and Son - By Taylor Langlois
They were absolutely amazing with my son, treated him with such respect, and met every one of his needs.
Region 54: What Families Say They Need
"Oftentimes, parents do not know what resources are available, therefore they do not know that their child can get that early start that they deserve."
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 48: What Families Say They Need
"I gave up my career to stay home because I couldn't find affordable care, waitlists, and my children having special needs…"