Rockford-Area Facebook Group Helps Families Find Early Childhood Resources

September 17, 2026

Original coverage in Rockford News First by Sydni Stoffregen.

This segment also aired live on WIFR (CBS) 23- News first at 4.

The Illinois Department of Early Childhood (IDEC) launched in July this year, providing programs dedicated to supporting families from pre-natal through the age of 5.

Even with IDEC, it can be overwhelming for families to know where look for these services. That’s where Birth to Five Illinois comes in.

Birth to Five Illinois connects families and Early Childhood professionals with local resources, services and community events, all through the use of mobile devices.

Ashlyn Kuelling runs the organizations Region 8 Facebook group, which serves Carroll, Jo Daviess and Stephenson counties. In the group, she shares events, resources and opportunities that area parents, caregivers and childcare providers might not otherwise hear about.

You can check out the group here.