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.
Family Council Impact: Region 51
“We're moving forward with of helping families to be able to find resources.”
Early Intervention Shortage – By Anonymous
As a mom of three, I have learned that all children grow in their own little ways.
Beyond Terrible Two’s - By Anonymous
I was warned by our pediatrician that the “terrible twos” start at 18 months.
Foster Mom of a Developmentally Delayed Child and What Early Intervention Can Do – By Jessica Koker
My foster son received speech and occupational therapy services…
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.
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.
Family Council Impact: Region 51
“Knowing that I'm not just a person to them, but I'm somebody who matters.”
Gratitude for Birth to Five Illinois – By Deidra Johnson
I am thankful for our Birth to Five Illinois Councils because the members are diligent about improving the quality of life, learning assistance, and growth for children from birth to age five and their families.
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.
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.
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.
Family Council Impact: Region 51
“It's my hope that our Regional Action Plan will bridge critical gaps and services for families…”
Family Council Impact: Region 49
“It's not for me at all. It's for the betterment of my son…”
Not Alone: How God and Community Carried Me Through Motherhood - By Madison Stamm
Birth to Five Illinois: Region 54 has been a tremendous support for my family by connecting us to valuable resources during my pregnancy and early motherhood.
Jumpstart to the Rescue - Breyania Strong & Family
My family has been through a lot recently, and I am so grateful to have the Jumpstart program to lean on when I need help being “mom”.
Family Council Impact: Region 48
“The work that we're doing here is absolutely benefiting not only my children, but other children in the community…”