The Connection Between Memory and Learning in Early Years

29 September 2025

Let’s take a walk down memory lane—literally.

Remember the first time you tied your shoelaces or the day you learned how to spell your name? These moments might seem small now, but they were huge milestones back when you were a little sponge soaking up the world. That's because memory and learning are best buddies, especially in our early years. They work hand in hand, shaping how we understand, retain, and use information as we grow.

But what exactly ties memory to learning during childhood? That’s what we’re going to unpack in this deep dive.

Let’s keep it simple, relatable, and real.

What Is Memory Anyway?

Memory isn’t just about remembering birthdays or where you left your keys (though that would be nice, right?). At its core, memory is the brain’s way of storing and retrieving information. It’s what allows us to hold onto knowledge, skills, and even emotions.

There are a few key types:

- Sensory Memory: Think of this like the snap of a camera. It holds information for just a second or two after an experience.
- Short-Term Memory (Working Memory): This is your brain’s notepad. It holds about 7 items at a time and lasts only about 15–30 seconds unless actively repeated.
- Long-Term Memory: This is where stuff gets stored for the long haul—like riding a bike or singing your favorite song from kindergarten.

Now, here’s the kicker: You can’t really learn anything without memory. Memory stores what we learn, and learning uses what we remember. It’s a two-way street.

Why Early Years Matter So Much

Childhood is like prime time for brain development. Between birth and age five, a child’s brain grows faster than at any other time in life. In fact, by age three, it reaches 80% of its adult size!

Let that sink in.

That rapid development means that kids are wired to soak up information—language, emotions, relationships, motor skills, and so much more. During these years, memory and learning don’t just happen; they explode.

But here’s the deal: the quality of what children are exposed to during this stage can significantly impact how well they remember and what they learn.

How Does Memory Support Learning?

1. Storage of Learned Information

This one’s obvious but crucial. If a child can’t remember what they’ve been taught, how can they build on it?

Think of memory as a bookshelf. Each new bit of knowledge—say, the alphabet or counting to ten—gets placed on a shelf. As more “books” (information) are added, the child builds a fuller library of knowledge to draw from.

Without memory, that information vanishes into the void.

2. Practice Makes Permanent

You’ve heard “practice makes perfect,” right? Well, it’s not just practice—it’s repeated retrieval from memory that really locks things in.

When a child practices saying the days of the week over and over, they’re not just repeating it—they're training their brain to pull that memory out more easily next time. Over time, it becomes second nature.

3. Foundation for Critical Thinking

Learning isn’t just about collecting facts; it’s about connecting them.

Once kids have a memory bank of concepts, they start making connections. For example, a toddler who remembers what “hot” means will think twice before touching a stove again. That’s memory informing judgment and decision-making—key aspects of learning.

The Brain Science Behind It All

Let’s geek out for a second (just a bit).

The hippocampus, located in the brain’s temporal lobe, plays a huge role in forming new memories. It works closely with the prefrontal cortex—the area responsible for thinking, planning, and understanding consequences.

In early childhood, the hippocampus is still developing, which is why young kids are better at learning new languages or picking up songs. But it also means they’re a bit forgetful—because their memory systems aren’t fully mature yet.

However, this plasticity (the brain's ability to change and adapt) is what makes early childhood such a golden window for learning.

Types of Memory That Influence Learning in Kids

Let’s break it down a little more.

1. Declarative Memory (Fact-Based)

This is the “I know that…” kind of memory. Like knowing the capital of France or your birthday. In kids, this shows up as learning the alphabet or memorizing nursery rhymes.

2. Procedural Memory (Skill-Based)

This deals with “I know how to…” stuff. Like riding a tricycle or drawing a star. It’s often learned through repetition and gets stored deep in the brain so that even if you don’t think about it, you can still do it.

3. Working Memory

Ah, the mental sticky note! Working memory lets kids juggle multiple pieces of info at once—like remembering a teacher’s instructions while doing an assignment. This one’s a huge predictor of academic success.

What Influences Memory and Learning in Early Years?

1. Environment

A rich, nurturing, and stimulating environment makes all the difference. Kids surrounded by books, language, music, and love often develop stronger memory skills.

It’s like planting a tree in fertile soil versus dry sand. Guess which one’s going to grow faster?

2. Sleep

Never underestimate a good nap. Sleep consolidates memories—meaning it helps the brain transfer information from short-term to long-term memory. This is why bedtime routines and adequate sleep are critical for young learners.

3. Nutrition

The brain’s hungry. It needs proper fuel—like omega-3 fats, protein, and vitamins—to work at its best. Malnutrition can hinder memory formation and cognitive development.

4. Repetition and Routine

Routine is your child’s best friend. Repetition strengthens the neural pathways needed for memory formation. So yes, reading the same bedtime story every night actually helps.

Tips to Support Memory and Learning at Home

If you're a parent, guardian, or even a curious uncle or aunt—you can help too!

1. Talk, Talk, Talk

Even if your toddler can’t respond yet, keep chatting. Language builds memory. Ask questions, label objects, and narrate your day.

2. Use Songs and Rhymes

There's a reason nursery rhymes stick. Rhythm and melody act like glue for memory. Use songs to teach everything from colors to manners.

3. Make Learning Hands-On

Kids remember what they experience. Want to teach numbers? Count apples at snack time. Want to build vocabulary? Take a nature walk and name what you see.

4. Praise Effort, Not Just Results

When kids try and fail, encourage them. The effort lays down memory tracks, even if the answer isn’t perfect yet.

5. Limit Screen Time

Too much passive screen time doesn't do much for memory formation. Interactive play, books, puzzles, and conversation are far more effective.

What About Children With Memory Challenges?

Some kids just seem to remember things slower or not at all. That doesn’t mean they can't learn—it means they may need different tools.

Children with ADHD, dyslexia, or other learning differences often struggle with working memory. That’s why tailored strategies, like breaking tasks into smaller steps or using visual aids, can be game-changers.

Remember, every brain is unique. Some take longer to build memory pathways, but with enough support and patience, they get there.

The Long-Term Impact of Early Memory and Learning

Here’s the big picture.

Strong memory skills in early childhood lay the foundation for future academic success—and even emotional intelligence. Why? Because remembering helps with everything from solving math problems to empathizing with a friend.

And it doesn’t stop in school. Kids who understand how to learn and remember effectively tend to become more confident, curious adults.

So yes, those early bedtime stories, sing-alongs, and puzzles? They matter. A lot.

Final Thoughts

The connection between memory and learning in early years is like peanut butter and jelly. You can’t have one without the other. Memory is the bedrock on which learning is built—and in those early years, the brain is at its most fertile and flexible.

By understanding how memory works and how to support it, we can help kids not only remember but thrive. So talk to them, read to them, play with them, and most of all—be patient. You’re helping them build a brain full of possibilities.