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.
There is Hope in the Struggle – By Samantha Balentyne
We have been very blessed and have not had any issues with child care in our community.
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.
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.
Searching For a Village - By Gretchen
We are very grateful for a supportive school system and resource-rich community that can deliver support services in school groups…
Region 16: What Families Say They Need
"It's so hard to find good care for an affordable price that covers actual working hours for the average person… not just 9:00am – 5:00pm, but all shifts."
Region 13: What Families Say They Need
"Teachers have voiced that being understaffed and not having resources or supports causes them to take on a larger load, which causes more stress and is pushing people out of the industry."
More Than a Mortgage - By Sprinkle Family
We see friends and families who cannot afford to work because of the cost of child care.