What is the term for the understanding that something still exists even though it cannot be seen or heard?

The term that describes the understanding that something continues to exist even when it is not visible or detectable through the senses is known as object permanence. This concept is crucial in cognitive development, particularly in infants, as it indicates a significant milestone in their ability to recognize that objects remain constant over time and space, regardless of their availability in the immediate environment.

Object permanence is an essential part of early childhood development, as it forms the foundation for more complex cognitive processes. Understanding this concept helps infants develop cognitive skills such as memory and anticipation, which are vital for interacting with their environment effectively.