The primary objective of this study was to assess the impact of parental education on child cognition in Pakistan.

This was a prospective observational study conducted in 2 governments and 2 low class private public schools in a small district of Pakistan. Study was approved by the head teachers of schools.

Two hundred children (90 male, 110 female), age 7–12 years class 3, 4 and 5 were assessed using McCarthy scale of child cognition. the educational status of parents was recorded. Each child underwent 5 verbal and linguistic tests, Mathematical ability by 3 tests, Reasoning in conversation on a scale of 1–7. Memory and Gross movements were also assessed as per scale. One way ANOVA test was applied using SPSS 18.

Parental data revealed uneducated 13.5%, up to primary education 9.5%, up to metric (O level) 35%, up to FA/FSc (A level) 13%, up to BA/BSc or equivalent 13%, masters levels (MA/MSc) and above16%.

Significant enhancement in 4 out of 5 skills including linguistic skills, mathematical ability, memory and gross fine movements were observed with increasing parental education (p < 0.05).

Improved parental education demonstrated significant improvement in child cognitive function. There is a need for higher level of education and literacy in Pakistan for better future of children.