
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.

Collaborative Community – By Alnette Smith
A collaborative community is so important and helpful to our children who are the future of our country.

Supporting Families & Empowering Kids - By Anonymous
Everyone involved— from the staff to the therapists— was incredibly nice and supportive, which made the process smooth and reassuring for both my daughter and me.

Region 50: What Families Say They Need
"Finding a program that had an opening was hard but once they found out that my child had a special need, they would start explaining all the reasons why they wouldn't be the best fit…"

Pros/Cons of My Child’s Experience with Early Childhood – By Tiffany McSpadden
I feel the longer kids engage in learning, the better off they will be.