How emotions influence your baby's memory

When your baby was born, they had around 100 billion brain cells.^[1] Now their brains have developed massively, and networks are beginning to form that allow them to develop their memory.^[2] Your baby’s brain and memory will keep developing. Here’s a quick look at the (complex and incredible) way that emotions can help shape your baby’s memory. 

Your baby expresses memory through emotions 

You might notice that your baby displays various emotions depending on the situation. If they've had a bad experience in a café, they might be more cautious the following time and hold on to their most loved one. Or, when you approach the park where they had such a good time the last time, they might clap, bounce and squeal with delight. 

They use their memory to predict 

Some of your baby’s memory is based on predictions. They have very few life experiences, meaning they draw upon what has gone before to guide their thoughts and emotions. This means a whole range of things, and your baby might remember something that you have forgotten. 

It's like the time that you had a lovely day in the park, feeding the ducks, playing on the equipment and looking at all the flowers and people – that is your memory. On that day, your baby became excited about a butterfly on a leaf. That was their memory. 

The next time you go to the park, your baby gets excited, saying, “Fly, fly.” You might interpret that as they want to fly in the park, when they are expecting to see a butterfly. Your baby might now associate the park with feeling excited about a butterfly.  

Supporting your baby's feelings

Your baby’s memory is beyond your control, and you can’t predict what they’ll remember.  

You can help support your baby by letting them know what is happening in your day. They might display their emotions of excitement or worry, and it will be easier for you to respond to their needs.^[3] 

• Your baby might need support to calm themselves down if they become excited about something they have previously enjoyed.  
• They will need extra reassurance from you if they have had a scary experience. Giving an extra cuddle or holding their hand a little tighter will reassure them that you understand. 
• Your baby needs to feel in control, and this can take time. Whether you are calming excitability or nerves, time is best set aside for you to offer support.  
• Respect how your baby is feeling. They might be afraid of something that you feel there is no reason for. No matter what your feelings are, your baby needs your support to overcome their worries.  

With experience, your baby’s memory will grow, and they will be able to regulate their thoughts and draw upon a range of experiences and emotions.  

References: 

[1] Ackerman S. (1992) Discovering the Brain. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 1992. 6, The Development and Shaping of the Brain. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK234146/ 

[2] 10 of the most Fascinating Toddler Facts. Junior Magazine. Available online at 10 Fascinating toddler facts & 6 great toddler Parenting books | Junior Magazine 

[3] The Baby Book. Preganancy, Birth, Baby and Child Care from 0-3. (2013) Dorling Kindersley.