Considering the early development of gender identity and social-cognitive theory, it is not surprising that prevalent gender attitudes and beliefs are modeled and internalized in the early childhood setting. Parental attitudes have a direct impact on child development, socialization/norms, and student achievement.  One aspect of social-cognitive theory is the importance of modeling of gender roles, behaviors and expectations. In this way, parents play a vital role in the construction of gender identity in the early years. Parents have long been considered children’s first teachers. Parental roles serve as the earliest model of gender roles in a child’s life and parental attitudes and practices regarding gender can influence and shape children’s early experiences.

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