ABSTRACT
For centuries, parents were the primary educators of children. They raised their children from birth and taught them fundamental skills and values that were deeply embedded in the culturally and socially rich contexts in which they lived. Enshrined in the Early Years Foundation Stage government guidance, there exists an expectation that parents will be consulted on all matters relating to their child’s education. During a child’s first five years of life, parenting is critical for the development of important social and cognitive outcomes, where parenting relationships establish these competences, and as such, set the stage for lifelong adaptation and functioning. Through the process of socialisation, the child–parent relationship has a major influence on most aspects of child development. Parents and educators need to acknowledge that they need each other in order to better communicate about the pedagogical climate at home and in the setting.
