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.
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.
Great Resources vs. Ability to Access Resources - By Inari Rivera
I moved to this area in 2005, and I have had 3 children since.
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…
The Struggles of a Single Mom - By the Durbin Family
Child care waiting lists are so long, and the cost for public, private, licensed, and/or unlicensed care is wild.