Childhood memories are a remarkable part of our lives.

It’s good to look back at the precious, lifelong memories you created with your family or friends. These memories can shape our personalities and help us make sense of the world.

Childhood memories can be simple things: the first Disney trip, the first lost tooth, the coveted tow wanted for Christmas are some common examples.

“My favorite nostalgic childhood memory is the Silly Bandz that you could get at the convenience stores,” Autumn Brady, senior, said. “The colors and categories were fun; I especially liked the Disney Princess series.”

Popular and trendy items such as Danimals yogurt smoothie cups from the grocery store; Kid Cuisine, Spongebob Squarepants; the Wii game systems; book fairs, Bratz Dolls; flip phones; Junie B. Jones books, and more had such an impact on Gen Z’s childhood.

“Tiktok has unlocked many childhood memories for me,” Messyah Felder, senior, said. “TikTok shows old things that I grew up with like Silly Bandz, the “Cat and the Hat” books, animal-shaped plates. These items are nostalgic and make me miss my  childhood.”

Music or certain sounds can also bring back memories. Strong emotions help encode experiences in the brain and turn them into lasting memories, which is why music and memory correlate to each other.

“The older you get, the more you’ll appreciate your youth and these memories you created when you were younger,” said Semiyah Royal, sophomore.

These moments remind you of your purpose in the present, as well as helping to ensure continuity between what was and what was going to be.