At about 20 months, which statement describes the development of object permanence?

At about 20 months, which statement describes the development of object permanence?

• A. Realizes that objects disappear when out of sight.
• B. Realizes that out of sight is not out of reach.
• C. Puts objects into a container but cannot take them out.
• D. Understands the passage of time such as just a minute.

Answer: (B)

Object permanence is the understanding that objects continue to exist even when they are not visible. At about 20 months, children increasingly recognize that something can be out of sight and still be there or within reach, so the statement that out of sight is not out of reach best describes this stage. This shows a more advanced grasp that hidden objects can still exist and be found, reflecting growing anticipation and search skills. Understanding that objects disappear when out of sight would indicate a less mature view of permanence. Similarly, putting objects into a container but not being able to retrieve them points to limited problem-solving or motor skill rather than a lack of permanence understanding. Grasping the passage of time is not expected at this age, so that option doesn’t fit either.

Object permanence is the understanding that objects continue to exist even when they are not visible. At about 20 months, children increasingly recognize that something can be out of sight and still be there or within reach, so the statement that out of sight is not out of reach best describes this stage. This shows a more advanced grasp that hidden objects can still exist and be found, reflecting growing anticipation and search skills.

Understanding that objects disappear when out of sight would indicate a less mature view of permanence. Similarly, putting objects into a container but not being able to retrieve them points to limited problem-solving or motor skill rather than a lack of permanence understanding. Grasping the passage of time is not expected at this age, so that option doesn’t fit either.