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.
Choosing to Be the Good: A Story of Resilience, Faith, and Family – By Kathleen Cousineau
I have always believed in being the good I wished to see in the world.
Landrie’s Journey: A Miracle Made Possible by Love & Support – By Rebecca Hilliard
Landrie’s story began with more obstacles than most of us could imagine.
Finding Support within the Community – By Katie Lisko
Growing up in a small town and moving to a bigger town has its advantages.
A Birth Story Far from Home – By Anonymous
My pregnancy was high-risk, and the nearest Level 3 NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) able to care for babies born before 32 weeks was 68 miles away in Missouri…
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.