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.
Boys Cry Too - By The Dennis Family
What I see in our Region for these resources changes all the time; I am hearing that they are becoming less and less, not growing.
It Takes a Village - By Elizabeth & Family
The services I need most for my family is specialized care that takes public insurance; it’s hard to find in our area, I don't think it exists…
Normalizing Mental & Behavioral Health Supports – By A Latina Mom of Multiple Children & Parent of Diverse Learners
Though we approached the support as part of normal health care routines, our conservative Latino family were very judgmental and didn't agree with our choice due to the stigma that surrounds this topic.
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?
Overstimulation - By Anonymous
Our son was diagnosed with Autism. That's where it stopped. There were no resources or services offered, not even a list of resources.
Why Is It So Challenging to Find Mental Health Services for Children? - By Mandy Bailey
The services my family needs most is being able to get consistent, continuous services so there are no gaps in treatment plans.
Searching For a Village - By Gretchen
We are very grateful for a supportive school system and resource-rich community that can deliver support services in school groups…
I Wish… - By Nicole Bach
My children will say to me "they just don't understand". And you know what? They're right. But I wish they weren't.
The Struggles of a Single Mom - By the Durbin Family
Child care waiting lists are so long, and the cost for public, private, licensed, and/or unlicensed care is wild.
Life with Taylor and Son - By Taylor Langlois
They were absolutely amazing with my son, treated him with such respect, and met every one of his needs.
Region 54: What Families Say They Need
"Oftentimes, parents do not know what resources are available, therefore they do not know that their child can get that early start that they deserve."
Region 53: What Families Say They Need
"Child care is expensive out of pocket. Not all families qualify for CCAP due to making too much money but could use the help."
Region 51: What Families Say They Need
"We need more resources in our community to help us understand our community… I want my children to have an education but do not know how to enroll them or where."
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…"
Region 49: What Families Say They Need
"A lot of individuals do not understand how to access or apply for services. These resources are here for you — to help you!"
Region 48: What Families Say They Need
"I gave up my career to stay home because I couldn't find affordable care, waitlists, and my children having special needs…"
Region 47: What Families Say They Need
"The question is how do parents know they are eligible for services?..."
Region 45: What Families Say They Need
“When programs are not housed in our community, parents and even educators are unaware of the services they provide.”
Region 44: What Families Say They Need
"We can't open the economy until we open the child care centers…"
Region 41: What Families Say They Need
"We need an intervention plan in place before children are identified with a disability."