What does the concept of object permanence refer to?

The concept of object permanence refers to the understanding that objects continue to exist even when they are not currently visible. This cognitive development milestone typically emerges in infants around 8 to 12 months of age. It signifies a fundamental aspect of human cognition, emphasizing the awareness that the existence of objects is independent of one's perception of them. For example, if a toy is hidden under a blanket, a child with object permanence will still look for the toy, recognizing that it has not disappeared just because it can no longer be seen. This ability is crucial for developing more advanced cognitive skills later on, as it lays the groundwork for understanding the world and interacting with it in more complex ways.