At what age do children start forming memories?

Before birth: I can't be sure at exactly when babies develope memory, but surely before birth. Hearing develops before birth and with hearing, certain sound/voice patterns influence baby's reaction certain way suggesting memory of what was heard. U probably have been told to read/sing to your baby before birth. If u can do it, it does not hurt. Consult doc if u have concerns. Good luck.

Controversial: Fetuses can recognize maternal voices (see kisilevsky, '03), but more complicated and verbally based memories probably do not develop until at least 3 or 4. Other emotional memories may well develop before age 3 that have to do with a sense of security/safety. Major problem is that it is hard to confirm adult reports of early childhood memories that are uncontaminated by later discussion.