Breaking Barriers: How Our Birth-to-Three Program Supports Families Before They Fall Through the Cracks

At the Children's Museum in Oak Lawn, we believe every child deserves the best possible start—no matter their zip code, income level, or insurance status. That’s why we launched our Wee Ones Wednesdays: a birth-to-three program to support families who are waiting, worrying, or wondering where to turn.

🧠 Why Birth to Three Matters

The first three years of life are a critical window of brain development. It’s when children begin learning how to communicate, move, interact, and explore. But not every family has immediate access to the support they need—especially when it comes to early intervention services.

Some are stuck on waitlists. Others don’t have insurance. Many don’t know where to start. That’s where we come in.

Mother and daughter at a Wee Ones Wednesday

🚪 Opening Doors, Not Just Exhibits

Our program was designed to do three things:

1. Reach families who are currently underserved, especially those waiting for evaluations or services. It's important to know that all families are welcome who have children under the age of three, whether your child needs services or not.

2. Provide play-based developmental support in a warm, non-clinical environment.

3. Empower caregivers with tools, confidence, and community. Many parents use this program as a time for social interaction with other parents and to give their child an opportunity for social interaction with other children. Many playgroups and parent meet-ups have been formed out of Wee Ones!

   
   

With the help of caring staff and thoughtful programming, we create opportunities for infants and toddlers to explore, connect, and build foundational skills all through the power of play.

🤝 A Model That Can Be Replicated

We’re proud of what this program is doing for local families and we believe it’s a model that could benefit communities across the country. By using existing museum infrastructure and removing access barriers, children's museums can become critical partners in early childhood development.

💬 What Families Are Saying

“As a working mom, I find myself unable to attend these events most of the time. The one and only day I was available to attend was the Wednesday before thanksgiving. I went to wee ones alone with my almost 3 year old non-verbal son, excited to see what this was all about. I felt extremely welcomed immediately. They gave me lots of resources and encouraged us to reach out to our local school district. This was something no one had ever brought up before. We were in contact with the school by December and started preschool by March with a speech IEP. All we needed was that small piece of knowledge and encouragement. Anything you need, they have the knowledge! And if not… they’ll give you the resources of someone else who can help." - Oliver's Mom

💡 The Next Step

This isn’t just a program—it’s a promise. A promise to meet families where they are, to walk alongside them, and to build a stronger foundation for every child’s future.

If you know a family who might benefit, or if you'd like to support this work with a donation, visit us at cmoaklawn.org or contact our team to learn more. Also, if you are a family seeking community resources, check out our Resource Hub.