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.
Realizing I'm Not Alone Anymore – By Anonymous
This program has helped me grow as a parent and reminded me that support is out there and that I deserve it.
Xander's Story - By Sheila Daly
This outcome did not come from a system designed to support families in crisis; it came from persistence.
The Circle of Resources – By Anonymous
There is definitely so much needed in the community so parents can trust that their children are referred to the right place.
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…
Family Councils’ Positive Impact – By Diana
I found Birth to Five Illinois in a time when I was vulnerable and learning how to be a new parent with all the challenges that come with little ones.
Early Childhood Services Make The World Go Round – By Karen L.
By the time my son was 8 months old, I wondered seriously about his development, quite a lot.
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.
