Parent enabling policies that have been initiated in five states are described in this report. In addition to the strong link between parental involvement and improvements in their children's educational performance, further evidence suggests that differences in child-rearing styles also affect child development and academic achievement. Policy reforms to enhance parent enabling are presented in three categories--parent involvement, direct parent counseling and education, and school choice plans. Policy initiatives in five states--Tennessee, Missouri, Arkansas, Minnesota, and Wisconsin--are described and a profile of one area private school is offered. A conclusion is that the state role in developing parent enabling policies is to strengthen and focus the parental role, rather than to replace it. Two tables are included. (14 references) (LMI)