Letter to the Editor: Birth to Five Illinois Gives Parents, Caregivers a Voice

September 27, 2026

Original coverage in the Rockford Register Star. (log-in required).

Raising a family comes with plenty of questions, but finding trustworthy information and the right local support should not be another challenge.

That is where Birth to Five Illinois comes in. The statewide organization connects families with Early Childhood resources and gives parents and caregivers a voice in the decisions that affect their communities.

For the past two years, I have helped manage Birth to Five Illinois: Region 4, a Facebook group serving Rockford-area families.

We share updates from local partners, highlight resources and opportunities for children and caregivers, and celebrate the positive work happening throughout our community.

As a mother, this work is personal to me.

I have experienced many of the highs and lows that come with raising a family, and I know how valuable it can be to receive helpful information at the right moment—and to feel that someone is listening.

Our Facebook group allows us to meet families where they already are. It also helps us learn from their experiences so we can advocate for policies and funding priorities that reflect what families truly need.

Every Rockford family deserves to feel informed, connected and heard.

Jennifer Miller, Birth to Five Illinois