# Time-based prospective memory in preschoolers – the role of time monitoring behavior

## TL;DR

This study explores how young children remember to perform tasks at a specific time, finding that time checking behavior is key for their success.

## Contribution

The study identifies time checking behavior as the primary factor influencing time-based prospective memory in preschoolers.

## Key findings

- The first signs of time-based prospective memory were observed in 2-year-olds.
- Time checking behavior explains most of the variance in TBPM performance among preschoolers.
- Preschoolers perform delayed intentions only minimally without external cues.

## Abstract

Time-based prospective memory (TBPM) refers to the ability to remember to perform an intended activity at a specific time in the future or after a specific time interval. This article reviews TBPM memory in preschool children and explores the role of time monitoring behavior in TBPM performance.

A total of 242 preschool-aged children (aged 2–6) performed a prospective memory task, wherein prospective memory accuracy, ongoing task performance, and time monitoring activity were assessed. Additionally, the study examined the relationship of various cognitive abilities to TBPM performance through the use of appropriate cognitive tasks.

The first signs of TBPM were observed in children as young as 2 years old. No significant age differences were identified; preschoolers can perform a delayed intention on their own initiative at a certain point in the future only to a minimal extent. The majority of variance in TBPM performance could be explained by time checking behavior.

The current study indicated that even 2-year-olds can perform TBPM at a basic level when the task is sufficiently understandable. While many cognitive abilities are correlated with TBPM performance, it appears that only time checking behavior plays a significant role in TBPM among preschoolers.