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.
Overcoming the Struggles – By Steffanie
I struggled for years trying to juggle being a full-time mom and having some kind of income to support my kids.
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.
Smile Every Day – By Charletha Edwards
Life in general has been a challenge lately. No matter what, I still must be my best self to raise my babies.
Childbirth Affected by Stigmas – By Anonymous
I have had what I thought was the privilege of delivering all my children at the same local hospital.
Navigating your Medicaid Coverage – By Anonymous
Being able to use our insurance for our local pediatrician and Mental and Behavioral Health resources has been a blessing for our family.
My Voice Matters – By Brittany H.
I started my journey with Birth to Five Illinois in 2022…
Supporting Families & Empowering Kids - By Anonymous
Everyone involved— from the staff to the therapists— was incredibly nice and supportive, which made the process smooth and reassuring for both my daughter and me.
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.
Rising from the Ashes: A Journey of Education, Resilience, and Family - Minister Chanel L. Kennedy-Bertrand, MACF, MNA, MSIS, BSCS
Education holds the key to a brighter future, one that is shaped by effort, perseverance, and an unyielding commitment to personal growth.
Birth to Five Illinois Was and Is a Great Support for Me and My Children – By Luisa
It is very important to know that as parents we have a voice and that there are organizations like Birth to Five Illinois to support parents and children, because sometimes we think that we are stuck alone.
Thank You for Your Help – By the McClendon Family
As a Black man with a special needs Black child, I feel like this office and especially this person, heard me and helped.
I Felt Very Welcome & Heard – By Anonymous
She gave me so many resources and was very non-judgmental. I felt very welcome and heard.
Surviving Domestic Violence - By Anonymous
No one should ever have to consider staying in a violent situation because escaping doesn’t seem like an option.
Maybe We Will Try Again - By Anonymous
…if my son needed any Mental and Behavioral Health resources, I wouldn’t be opposed to the idea. I would just hope he had a better experience than I did.
Boys Cry Too - By The Dennis Family
What I see in our Region for these resources changes all the time; I am hearing that they are becoming less and less, not growing.
It Takes a Village - By Elizabeth & Family
The services I need most for my family is specialized care that takes public insurance; it’s hard to find in our area, I don't think it exists…
Where Are the Helpers? - By A Tired Parent
Where are the helpers, and why is it so hard to find quality care in our area?