From Birth to Five: Giving Every Child a Strong Start

September 8, 2025

Original coverage in The Healthy Mouth Movement Podcast with Sheree Wertz.

Birth to five is the most important stage of a child’s life—yet it’s often overlooked in healthcare and education. In this episode of the Healthy Mouth Movement Podcast, I sit down with Ashonti Jackson, Regional Council Manager for Birth to Five Illinois, to explore how this statewide initiative is closing gaps in care, building stronger communities, and making sure every child has access to the resources they need.

We dive into how Birth to Five Illinois is driven by community voices, why access and awareness are critical for families, and the innovative steps being taken across Illinois to address early childhood needs holistically. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or community advocate, this conversation will open your eyes to the importance of early intervention and remind you that you’re not alone on this journey.

Timeline Summary

[2:12] – Introducing Birth to Five Illinois and why the early years matter so much

[6:45] – How regional offices are tailored to meet the unique needs of each community

[12:30] – The importance of access and awareness for families navigating services

[18:55] – Tackling behavior and expulsion challenges through social-emotional learning

[25:40] – Why community voice is at the heart of every decision Birth to Five Illinois makes

[33:10] – Addressing healthcare gaps, food deserts, and housing instability in Illinois

[45:22] – How families and stakeholders can get involved through councils and storytelling

Links & Resources

Birth to Five Illinois: www.birthtofiveil.com/

Early Childhood Resource Hub (housed at Oak Lawn Children’s Museum): Oak Lawn Children’s Museum Resource Hub

Connect with Ashonti Jackson: ajackson@birthtofiveil.com