Objective <p>Early childhood is a critical stage of rapid cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. The development during this period is crucial for the long-term health and well-being of children. This study investigates the influence of maternal parenting stress on early childhood development, with a specific focus on the mediating role of maternal depression and the moderating effect of family resilience.</p> Methods <p>A nine-month longitudinal study was conducted involving 558 children and their mothers.</p> Results <p>The study found that maternal parenting stress significantly negatively impacts early childhood development. Maternal depression acts as a mediator between maternal parenting stress and early childhood development. Furthermore, family resilience was found to significantly moderate both the initial and latter parts of this mediating relationship.</p> Conclusion <p>The study highlights the protective role of family resilience in this mediating process, contributing to the expansion of the Family Adjustment and Adaptation Response Model and enriching family educational practices.</p>