New Insights on Infants’ Memory: Early Encoding Found in 12-Month-Olds
A Yale-led study challenges the idea that infant memory merely forms and fades due to early memory gaps. The research suggests that memories can begin encoding as early as 12 months, while retrieval skills may be the main reason earlier memories become harder to access. This reframes how we understand memory development in the first years of life.
For Thai families, the findings offer practical implications for early childhood education and parenting. If infants can form memories earlier than previously thought, educators and caregivers can design activities that nurture memory growth and recognition from a very young age. Thai classrooms can incorporate culturally meaningful games, stories, and heritage experiences to support cognitive development from infancy.