Media release

From: The Royal Society

Active Control over Exploration Improves Memory in Toddlers

In this study, toddlers aged 18 to 36 months were either allowed to actively control their exploration (Active condition) or presented with the same information that they could only passively observe (Passive/Yoked condition). They were then tested in a preferential-looking paradigm in which familiar versus novel stimuli were presented in pairs. Evidence from eye-movement patterns indicates that toddlers have better recognition memory when given active control over the learning experience.

Child’s play – Giving toddlers freedom to roam and explore could improve their memory. Toddlers (18 – 36 months) were presented with six boxes containing hidden items and were allowed to actively explore or shown a video revealing their contents. When later presented with a familiar and unfamiliar item, eye-movement patterns indicated better recognition memory in those given active control over their learning.