ABSTRACT

The development of memory cannot be discussed in isolation, without mention of other cognitive functions. In fact, memory requires the formation and use of other functions for its own growth, and develops clearly interdependently of the differentiation and refined use of other abilities and skills. Primary among these are motor and sensory abilities, which are continuously activated and improved upon. Even at night, infants move and receive sensory input. By experiencing changes in external stimuli, the first forms of learning are initiated: habituation, which means becoming accustomed to essentially similar stimuli when they are repeated, and sensitization, which means becoming attentive after a change in external conditions.