Object permanence is the understanding that an object still exists even when it can no longer be seen. When your baby has object permanence, he/she knows that just because they can’t see an object it is still there.  When you hide something from your baby, does he/she look for it? At around 4-7months, your child will begin developing object permanence. Here’s a simple game to play with your child that help your child’s understanding of object permanence.  
 

What you will need: 

-2 cups 

-a ball or small toy that can be hidden under the cup 
 

Engaging with Your Child: 

Place the cups facing down on the ground and hide a ball under one of the cups. Ask your child, “Where is the ball? Which cup is the ball hiding in?” Let your child lift a cup to see whether the ball is hiding under it. If it isn’t the cup with the ball you can say, “Nope. It's not in this one. Hmmm... where is the ball?” This should prompt your baby into lifting the next cup and revealing the hiding ball. Encourage your baby in their discovery, “Yes! You found it! Let’s do it again.” Early learners need many repeated experiences over time to master concepts. Play with your child and keep on playing!