What is a key feature of the sensorimotor stage?

A key feature of the sensorimotor stage, as defined by Jean Piaget, is the emergence of object permanence. This concept refers to the understanding that objects continue to exist even when they cannot be seen, heard, or otherwise sensed. During this stage, which spans from birth to about two years of age, infants learn about the world primarily through their sensory experiences and motor activities. The realization that objects exist independently of their immediate sensory experience marks a significant cognitive development milestone.

This stage lays the groundwork for further cognitive development, as babies explore their surroundings and engage in activities that help them build connections in their brain regarding the permanence of objects. Understanding that an object remains out of sight rather than ceasing to exist is fundamental for later stages of cognitive development, where logical reasoning and abstract thought become prominent.