While all contexts surrounding early childhood have an impact on child development, caregivers (specifically parents)have the closest and most direct influence on children’s development. Parent involvement in education has also been shown to impact academic achievement, and to improve the health, cognitive functioning and development of young children. Several studies have examined the importance of parental involvement in early childhood and have linked family involvement behaviors and academic outcomes. Wong and Hughes (2006) suggested that the parent-school connection was so important that it could help lessen the achievement gap for minority students; alluding to the powerful role that family involvement plays in education.  The concept of parent involvement has evolved from predominantly what parents contribute in school - such as volunteering or parent teacher conferences - to a more dynamic and multidirectional concept. Epstein (1995) broadened this conceptual understanding to include what parents do at home and in the community to foster learning and education. Family involvement behaviors occurring at home and in early childhood education setting have been shown to positively contribute to academic and social outcomes.  Considering the cognitive, social and developmental importance of early childhood and early childhood education, and the importance of parents in shaping early childhood development at home and in early childhood education settings, it is not surprising that many ECCE programs stress the importance of parent involvement in education.