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.
The Support Every Family Deserves – By Mallory Pawlak (Mom)
This program didn’t just help our kids—it gave our family hope and a future we once weren’t sure was possible.
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.
Landrie’s Journey: A Miracle Made Possible by Love & Support – By Rebecca Hilliard
Landrie’s story began with more obstacles than most of us could imagine.
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.
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.
Amazing Journey – By Ashley
After my son was diagnosed with autism, I had no clue where to start or what to do in order to get him the services he needed.
Emerie’s Hearing Journey – By Kaylin Krabbe
On Feb 7, 2024, our baby girl Emerie was born. That very same day, we found out she failed her hearing test…
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!
Encouragement – By Jacque Sweat
I wanted to share a word of encouragement with the Family Councils.
Collaborative Community – By Alnette Smith
A collaborative community is so important and helpful to our children who are the future of our country.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Therapy is Not a Dirty Word – By Ashley Hurn
Therapy is not a dirty word. If children need it and have access to it, let them get the therapy.
Everyone Deserves to Be Treated with Respect - By Sara Farmer
There needs to be more of a support system in place for parents and their children.