A new study published in Science suggests babies as young as 12 months are actively forming memories. This challenges the idea of infantile amnesia—the belief that early memories fade quickly. The findings indicate memory formation starts earlier and may be stronger than previously believed, with important implications for Thai parents and educators shaping learning from birth.
Researchers from a leading university explored how the hippocampus, a brain region crucial for memory encoding, functions in infants. Using child-friendly functional magnetic resonance imaging, the team observed hippocampal activity in infants who displayed stronger memory signals through non-verbal cues like longer gaze at familiar objects. The results show memory processes are active much earlier in life than once assumed.
Imaging infants is challenging because they move during scans. The team used gentle, child-centered methods to keep babies calm and still, including soothing techniques, engaging visuals, and careful positioning. The study followed 26 infants divided into two age groups, offering a broad view of early memory development.
The findings have practical significance beyond theory. They suggest the cognitive load and environmental stimuli available to young children can influence memory formation. In the experiments, infants were shown pairs of images, and researchers tracked whether they remembered familiar items versus new ones. The data indicate memory retention could extend up to three years in some cases, raising questions about whether certain memories can be reactivated later on.
The study resonates with Thailand’s emphasis on early childhood education. Government efforts to strengthen early learning and parental involvement gain fresh relevance from these insights. Creating a nurturing, interactive learning environment in the earliest years can lay a solid foundation for later cognitive growth.
Thai families value family life, storytelling, and social learning. The findings support the idea that everyday interactions—shared reading, play, and group activities at home and in communities—play a meaningful role in memory development. This holistic approach aligns with Thai cultural norms that prioritize bonding and collaborative learning within the family.
Looking ahead, researchers aim to understand how early memories influence later thinking and how educational practices can leverage these discoveries to improve lifelong learning. Parents can take practical steps: engage in varied sensory activities, read aloud regularly, tell stories, and provide safe, stimulating environments that encourage exploration and discussion.
For families seeking practical guidance, health and education authorities emphasize enriching experiences for infants. Data from reputable institutions indicate that daily interaction, consistent routines, and age-appropriate activities support cognitive growth from birth onward.