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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
Region 12: What Families Say They Need
"…we simply need more local, quality, and affordable access to everything every day — child care, medical resources, community programs, and so much more."
Just When I Think My Work as Grandma is Slowing Down, They Start to Call Me Great - By Sandy Hyde
Our area needs more support for grandparents raising grandchildren. We also need more activities for children of all ages to do.
Foster Care Equality - By C.
To begrudge a child a place in child care based off being in the foster care system is preposterous!