See what local families say they need for their children across the State
Family Stories
Birth to Five Illinois has created this welcoming space for parents and caregivers to share their family story of ECEC challenges and successes. It is our hope that as families share their stories, we will amplify the disparities in the system so we can work collectively and strategically to mend what is broken, while also celebrating what’s working.
If you have a story to share, please visit our submission page.
Family Council Impact: Region 17
“As a stay at home mom, I’ve learned a lot of things that my kids are not missing but that they needed help with.”
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.
Everyone Deserves to Be Treated with Respect - 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.