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.
Providers Need Love Too! - By Jasmine Castro
My greatest success has been the EXCEPTIONAL experiences my toddler has had with his provider.
Long-Distance Child Care - By Cheyenne Camden
My greatest challenge is child care. It prohibits me from working full time.
Single Stay-At-Home-Mother of 4 - By Kaitlin Heinz
My family definitely needs trustworthy and high-quality child care that is affordable! There is virtually NO OPTION in my town!
The Balancing Act of Child Care and Work, With No Options - By Anonymous
I need access to child care in our area, quality child care that is open actual working hours and has the ability to take school-age children, even if they have days off from school.
Searching for Early Childhood Education and Services is Nonstop - By Ashley Omlor
When we moved here seven years ago, I never thought it would be a challenge to find preschools, child cares, and family services.
Educated and Willing to Work! - By Katelyn Wilfong
It was nearly impossible with being a stay-at-home mom and not having child care. Now that I have a degree, I cannot use it.
Foster Care Equality - By C.
To begrudge a child a place in child care based off being in the foster care system is preposterous!
Our Early Intervention - By Alexis Leathers
They went above and beyond to make sure we were able to connect to community programs that would help our family financially.
More Availability for Centers - By Ashley Renth
It becomes very difficult for families to provide a double income home or even an income in general with little to no resources or a daycare for their children.
The Needs of Vermilion County - By Diamond Moss
We need affordable child care in Vermilion County for working parents and we need child care for parents who work after normal business hours and during school breaks.
More Than a Mortgage - By Sprinkle Family
We see friends and families who cannot afford to work because of the cost of child care.
We’re All in This Together - By Sonya Clark
The closest place that will provide ABA therapy is in St. Louis (two hours away).