First Experiences as New Parents in a New Environment - By Grace Keller, Levi Alexander, and Walker Alexander

Looking for child care facilities has definitely been a challenge, not a success. I was hoping to find child care that I could send my son to part-time, but those options are very limited as far as I know. Being new to the area, both my son’s father and I are from a much more rural area. We aren't aware of where to even start looking. Finding the Birth to Five Illinois Family Council has been the greatest success in helping me start my journey as a mother and to find quality care for our son.

Aside from child care, we would like access to family events, activities, and safe places to go. I know libraries are a great start, but I have heard there are many more options than just that! The idea of someone providing educational resources, and/or even coming to our home to help aide me in being his first teacher sounds appealing. Financial planning for our future looks different now with a change in the trajectory of my career (and for my son's dad’s career as well). While considering our son's future as well as the passing of time, I'm sure we will need services to help us plan in the best way possible. Luckily, since I work at the hospital, I am knowledgeable enough to maneuver through insurance and other health benefits.