What is the focus of the sensorimotor stage in Piaget’s theory?

The sensorimotor stage is the first stage in Piaget’s theory of cognitive development, which occurs from birth to approximately two years of age. The primary focus during this stage is on the development of object permanence, which refers to the understanding that objects continue to exist even when they cannot be seen, heard, or otherwise sensed. This concept is crucial as it marks a significant cognitive leap for infants, allowing them to develop an understanding of the world around them.

As infants engage with their environment through sensory experiences and motor activities, they begin to recognize that their actions can have effects on their surroundings, contributing to their cognitive growth. Mastering object permanence is critical, as it lays the foundation for later stages of development where children will start recognizing the permanence of objects and relationships, which significantly contributes to their learning and exploration of the world. This foundational understanding influences later cognitive abilities, including problem-solving and memory.