Share. Listen. Learn.
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 together to mend what is broken, while also celebrating what is working.
Community Connection – By Shamyra Brown
If you are reading this and wondering if you should join a Birth to Five Illinois Council, do it!
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.
My Experience with the Programs - Tenesha Cooper
I was able to get approved and enrolled for the SIUE Head Start program in Belleville after being placed on the waiting list…
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.
Region 50: What Families Say They Need
"Finding a program that had an opening was hard but once they found out that my child had a special need, they would start explaining all the reasons why they wouldn't be the best fit…"
Pros/Cons of My Child’s Experience with Early Childhood – By Tiffany McSpadden
I feel the longer kids engage in learning, the better off they will be.