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 28
“We have brought a lot of awareness to families of programs.”
Epilepsy – By Marisa
From the moment we connected with this organization, we felt seen, heard, and supported.
The Journey – By Elizabeth Scott
After just days of working in child care, I fell in love.
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.
Needing to Help Our Children - Even Through the State – By Kaitlin Perkins
Her therapist left at the end of July and the only options that Early Intervention could offer us were video appointments or traveling further than we wanted.
We Need More Attention on Mental Health in Early Childhood Education & Care Settings – By Anonymous
We also need child care options equipped to offer support for students who have mental or behavioral health concerns.
Grateful for The Preschool For All Program – By Single Parent of Six
...I will be forever grateful to our Preschool Teacher for providing my children with a safe and welcoming place to learn, play, and grow.
Thank You for Your Help – By the McClendon Family
As a Black man with a special needs Black child, I feel like this office and especially this person, heard me and helped.
I Felt Very Welcome & Heard – By Anonymous
She gave me so many resources and was very non-judgmental. I felt very welcome and heard.
Em's Story – By Anonymous
Parental support during any IEP meeting by a professional on the family's side and the child should be mandatory.
Why is Postpartum a Secret? - By Alissa & Family
I don’t understand why postpartum isn’t discussed during prenatal appointments, why it isn’t shared that this is something very real that can happen to anyone.
Surviving Domestic Violence - By Anonymous
No one should ever have to consider staying in a violent situation because escaping doesn’t seem like an option.
School Phobia - By Anonymous
Through school directives, my family has struggled through the Mental and Behavioral Health world.
Reach Out & Get the Help You Need, Don’t Try to Fight this Battle Alone - By Breanna Puckett-Woods
I’m sharing my story to hopefully encourage someone that may be experiencing the same or similar situation to reach out and get help.
How to Navigate Accessing Services - By The Wiley Family
I had no idea where to look for counseling services aside from "googling it".
There is No Shame, Only Pain When You Don't Help Yourself - By Lakeisha Johnson Lowe
One day I advocated for myself at the doctor's office, and I started taking medications so that I could help control my emotions and take care of my children.
Support Before Crisis - By Adoptive, Single Mom Looking for Mental Health Support for Multiple Children Affected by Trauma
The reality shared with me is unless you have a connection or crisis, nobody under the age of 8 can access a psychiatrist in Illinois. If true, this shortage forces families into unimaginable situations and creates a pattern of struggle for children that is difficult to escape.