---
title: "Sensorimotor Stage — AP Psychology Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "The sensorimotor stage is Piaget's first stage (birth to ~2), when infants learn through senses and movement and develop object permanence. Key for AP Psych Unit 6."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/sensorimotor-stage"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Psychology"
---

# Sensorimotor Stage — AP Psychology Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

The sensorimotor stage is the first stage in Piaget's theory of cognitive development where infants learn about the world through their senses and motor activities from birth until approximately 2 years old.

## Related Study Guides

- [6.3 Cognitive Development in Childhood](/ap-psych-revised/unit-6/cognitive-development-childhood/study-guide/aVv1M6VBKwxRcxzwCIhj)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Object Permanence](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/object-permanence): The understanding that objects continue to exist even when they cannot be seen, heard, or otherwise sensed. This is a key concept developed during the sensorimotor stage.
- [Preoperational Stage](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/preoperational-stage): The second stage in Piaget's theory of cognitive development (from about 2 - 7 years old), where children begin to engage in symbolic play and learn to manipulate symbols.
- [Reflexes](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/reflexes): Automatic responses or actions programmed by non-cortical brain centers. These are crucial for survival during early infancy which falls under sensorimotor stage.