Beverley Hughes has outlined plans to spend £9m helping disadvantaged parents get more involved in their children's development.
The education minister said the funds, to be targeted at local authorities in the poorest areas, will help parents relate to their children.
Parental support for learning will help a child throughout the years of primary education, according to research.
Council proposals include giving parents learning diaries and albums for young children so they can discuss progress with professionals, and helping parents use music and singing to encourage their children to speak and listen.
A total of 41 local authorities will benefit from the funds, which the government said would build on the success of existing resources such as children's centres.
Hughes said: "We know that parents are central to children's wellbeing and that children's experiences in their early years have a major impact on later life.
"It is vital that children have a sound basis on which to learn and develop, as well as enjoying time with their parents.
"These are targeted funds and we hope to see innovative work in reaching vulnerable parents in areas where they need support and encouragement to really get involved in their children's development."
