Object Permanence

Definition

Object permanence is the understanding that objects continue to exist even when they cannot be seen, heard, or otherwise sensed.

Related terms

Conservation:

This is the understanding that certain properties of an object (like volume or mass) remain the same despite changes in the object's appearance.

Schema:

A mental framework that helps us organize and interpret information. For example, a child might have a schema about dogs - they have four legs, fur, bark etc.

Cognitive Development:

The process by which a child’s understanding of the world changes as a function of age and experience.