Your Child Will Learn
Object permanence: objects still exist even when they are hidden
Here’s What to Do
- Move your face or a favorite toy behind a cover (like: your hands, a blanket, a box).
- Uncover your face or the toy after a few seconds so I can see, touch or play with it again. Watch to see if I keep looking at the place where your face or the toy disappeared.
- Repeat with different objects.
Put PEER Into Action
PAUSE
- Smile at me and give me a kiss.
ENGAGE
- “Here’s the ball! (move behind cover) Where is it? Where did the ball go?”
- “Here I am, I came back? Where do you think I went? Was I behind my hands?”
ENCOURAGE
- Try hiding something that makes a sound to give me an extra clue that the object is still there, even if I can’t see it.
- It may take several tries for me to get the hang of this game. If I don’t get it today, try again in a week or two.
REFLECT
- Do you think I understand that the object is still there, even if I can’t see it?
Not Quite Ready
Keep practicing this game with me. Play peek-a-boo with me when you have a spare moment.
Ready for More
While I’m watching, cover objects partially or completely. See if I still try to find them.
As Your Child Masters This Skill
They will develop object permanence, and understand that hidden objects are still there under the cover.
Time to Complete
5-10 minutes
Materials Needed
Small toy, a cover (like: blanket, box, your hands)