This qualitative dissertation study will explore how family engagement vis-à-vis relationships between African American teachers and African American families supports racial socialization and young children's emergent racial identity. This study is guided by the following research questions: How do African American teachers and African American families build relationships to support African American children’s racial identity development? 2) How are these relationships reflected in African American teachers’ and African American families’ cultural values, race-related beliefs, and family-centered practices regarding their roles in racial identity development of African American young children? (author abstract)