![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/61ba6b3017614378f01ce468/43782f2d-d704-4304-84a8-0927a044ca51/jonathan-borba-DUrU_bZV8So-unsplash.jpg)
See what local families say they need for their children across the State
Family Stories
Birth to Five Illinois is on a mission to shift the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) landscape across Illinois by centering the voices and experiences of families. Where there are families, there are stories: stories of bureaucracy and systemic shortcomings, and stories of families and children thriving in the face of compassionate providers and exemplary services. We are here for it all!
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.
![Just When I Think My Work as Grandma is Slowing Down, They Start to Call Me Great - By Sandy Hyde](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/61ba6b3017614378f01ce468/1675267210619-6RKJBIF4JV59NG0CE1FQ/Sandy+%26+Auston.jpg)
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.
![Searching for Early Childhood Education and Services is Nonstop - By Ashley Omlor](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/61ba6b3017614378f01ce468/1682022380373-Q82POENE5O5LUZFYOC4Z/ashley+omlor.jpg)
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.