Having recently discussed earliest memories with friends and family members, there seems to be a general consensus that events occurring prior to age three or four are lost to our conscious memory as we grow older. More than an interesting consequence of human neurologic development, this phenomenon triggers concern (and sadness) that interactions with our young children or grandchildren may not be remembered as they age.
Of course, those early interactions do live on in their subconscious memory, cementing attachments and fostering interests. In concert with gene expression, the experiences of early life play a major role in who we become and how we approach relationships, challenges and opportunities. And if we endure neglect, abuse or trauma as young children, these subconscious events may hinder our emotional growth, surfacing as psychological disorders, substance abuse or abnormal behavior.
Our young children and grandchildren may not recall the details of the love and nurturing that they received but they will sense the effects throughout their lives. We should never hold back on the emotional support and intellectual stimulation that we provide; it will, after all, be the foundation of their character.
Of course, those early interactions do live on in their subconscious memory, cementing attachments and fostering interests. In concert with gene expression, the experiences of early life play a major role in who we become and how we approach relationships, challenges and opportunities. And if we endure neglect, abuse or trauma as young children, these subconscious events may hinder our emotional growth, surfacing as psychological disorders, substance abuse or abnormal behavior.
Our young children and grandchildren may not recall the details of the love and nurturing that they received but they will sense the effects throughout their lives. We should never hold back on the emotional support and intellectual stimulation that we provide; it will, after all, be the foundation of their character.
