Rich, Edna GRoman, Nicolette V.2021-08-102021-08-102019Rich, E. G., & Roman, N. V. (2019). Legislative policies and culture on parenting practices: Improving the parent-child relationship in South Africa .Revista de Políticas Públicas,23(1)389-4012178-2865http://dx.doi.org/10.18764/2178-2865.v23n1p389-401http://hdl.handle.net/10566/6501Parent-child relationships are often described as unique and enduring bonds that take place between a caregiver/parent and their child. Several South African legislative policy documents have been implemented to guide service delivery to families and to strengthen the parent-child relationship in families. This paper aims to critically examine the current frameworks and explore what is required in South Africa in order to improve the parent-child relationship and overall child developmental outcomes. Utilising an ecological perspective, aspects identified as beneficial towards improving the parent-child relationship in South Africa are discussed on a micro-, meso- and macro-level. Cultural influences are considered, and recommendations are provided in order to improve the parent-child relationship in a South African context.enParent-child relationshipChild developmentEarly childhood developmentParenting stylesCultureArticle