As parents scroll through photo galleries on their phones, they often come across folders labeled “Son” or “Daughter,” filled with cherished baby pictures. These images capture significant milestones, such as first birthdays, beach visits at age two, and moments with family members who have since passed away. However, while adults can recall these memories, children typically do not have early recollections. This raises the question: why do people seem to lack memories from their early childhood?
Understanding Childhood Amnesia
Child psychologist Marta García explains, “There are different types of memory: short-term memory, which is temporary, and long-term memory, which includes several forms such as episodic memory and autobiographical memory.” Childhood amnesia is a well-known phenomenon that refers to the difficulty of recalling autobiographical events from the early years of life. García notes that memories can start to form around age three and a half, although the quantity of memories remains limited compared to adulthood. While episodic memory is still developing, other types of memory are beginning to take shape.
The Role of the Hippocampus
The primary reason for the absence of early memories is linked to the development of the hippocampus, the brain structure responsible for memory processing. Pediatric clinical psychologist Edurne González elaborates that the hippocampus is formed at birth but remains immature for several years. By about age three or four, it has developed enough to begin generating and storing memories. Even if some individuals recall memories from ages two or three, these recollections can be fragile due to the hippocampus's limited functionality at that stage.
González highlights the significance of language in shaping memory. She distinguishes between two memory types: explicit memory, which is conscious and can be articulated, and implicit memory, which remains unconscious yet influential.
Recent Research Findings
According to a 2025 study published in Science titled Hippocampal Encoding of Memories in Human Infants, infants can form memories during their first year of life, even if these memories may not be retrievable later in adulthood. The study suggests that childhood amnesia arises not from an inability to register experiences but from challenges in retrieving them as one grows older.
The Value of Early Experiences
This leads to a pertinent question: Should parents invest in experiences for their young children even if these memories won't endure? González emphasizes that while children may not remember all experiences, they do retain feelings of safety and affection from caregivers. A secure emotional foundation during early development can prevent future emotional issues such as anxiety and depression. Therefore, rather than a barrage of experiences, children primarily need affection, safety, and emotionally available parents.
García supports this view, stating that shared experiences—regardless of memory retention—help strengthen the emotional bond between parents and children and aid in social and cognitive development. Notably, experiences rich in emotional context are easier to remember, particularly when they involve significant relationships.
Parental Perceptions and Emotional Bonds
Parents might feel unappreciated for their efforts in providing experiences that children won't recall. However, García suggests this generally doesn't deter parents. The nurturing actions parents take in early life significantly enhance the parent-child bond, even if the child does not remember specific events. “It's about what the child is learning during those formative moments,” she notes.
For González, the methods parents use to engage with very young children are crucial. Ensuring that children feel acknowledged and allowing them to explore contributes to their overall happiness and safety. “There is no greater gift for parents than knowing their child is safe and happy, having done their best with available resources,” she concludes.
