Maria Miller has highlighted the need for a universal health visitor service after the launch of a new Family Commission.
The commission, created by 4Children, will look at the extended family and the support it needs.
Maria, the Shadow Children's Minister, said, "Parents are crying out for extra support in the early years," and promised that a Conservative Government would introduce a universal health visitor service.
With parents working longer hours, Maria also stressed the importance of giving all parents, including those with teenage children, the right to request flexible working so they are better able to juggle family and work commitments.
She stressed, "Parents need to be able to invest in creating a strong family life to give children the support and stability they need to survive in later life."