Future thinking : children but not apes consider multiple possibilities

Abstract

When anticipating the future, we draw on our past experience but must take uncertainty into account; for example, while preparing for a trip, we might pack a raincoat and sunglasses because of unpredictable weather. New research shows that the ability to plan for multiple future possibilities may be present in human children from as early as 3–4 years of age, but appears to be lacking in non-human apes.