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.
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.
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.
Support Before Crisis - By Adoptive, Single Mom Looking for Mental Health Support for Multiple Children Affected by Trauma
The reality shared with me is unless you have a connection or crisis, nobody under the age of 8 can access a psychiatrist in Illinois. If true, this shortage forces families into unimaginable situations and creates a pattern of struggle for children that is difficult to escape.
Maybe We Will Try Again - By Anonymous
…if my son needed any Mental and Behavioral Health resources, I wouldn’t be opposed to the idea. I would just hope he had a better experience than I did.
Normalizing Mental & Behavioral Health Supports – By A Latina Mom of Multiple Children & Parent of Diverse Learners
Though we approached the support as part of normal health care routines, our conservative Latino family were very judgmental and didn't agree with our choice due to the stigma that surrounds this topic.
Where Are the Helpers? - By A Tired Parent
Where are the helpers, and why is it so hard to find quality care in our area?
Overstimulation - By Anonymous
Our son was diagnosed with Autism. That's where it stopped. There were no resources or services offered, not even a list of resources.
Why Is It So Challenging to Find Mental Health Services for Children? - By Mandy Bailey
The services my family needs most is being able to get consistent, continuous services so there are no gaps in treatment plans.
Searching For a Village - By Gretchen
We are very grateful for a supportive school system and resource-rich community that can deliver support services in school groups…
I Wish… - By Nicole Bach
My children will say to me "they just don't understand". And you know what? They're right. But I wish they weren't.
The Struggles of a Single Mom - By the Durbin Family
Child care waiting lists are so long, and the cost for public, private, licensed, and/or unlicensed care is wild.
A Parent’s Perspective on Children’s Mental Illness: Liza Long
“Until people are willing to put their names on these stories, this isn’t real.”
Is It Any Wonder? - By Anonymous
…when someone asks me “how did you do it?” I do not have an answer.