Collectively, the papers in this special issue make several contributions towards understanding family engagement by: (1) emphasizing the importance of assessing the influence of family engagement on families and children from a strength rather than a deficit perspective; (2) demonstrating that individualized and culturally grounded family engagement, especially for racially, ethnically, and linguistically diverse families and families who live in poverty, is a key component of quality child care; and (3) highlighting the importance of examining the markers of parenting and family engagement. By addressing these gaps, this special issue offers guidance for future research, practice, and policy in the field of family engagement and parenting. (author abstract)