Montessori Object Permanence Box for Toddlers

The Object Permanence Box - Montessori Activity and Presentation for Infants and Toddlers

The Montessori infant/toddler environment often features the object permanence box. Generally, it is introduced to children around 8-12 months of age, when they are old enough to sit up without assistance. The direct aim of the material is to help children develop their sense of object permanence. Additionally, it indirectly aids in the development of focus, concentration, and fine motor skills through the whole-hand grasp.

Presentation of the Montessori Object Permanence Box:

1. Place the work mat and position the object permanence box on it, in front of the child. Encourage the child to assist.
2. Sit facing the child with the work mat between you.
3. Identify the box and the ball: "This is the box. This is the ball."
4. Slowly and deliberately place the ball in the hole.
5. When the ball rolls to a stop in the tray, smile and pick it up.
6. Repeat the action.
7. Invite the child to place the ball in the hole.
8. Once the child begins putting the ball in the hole, quietly move aside and allow her to work undisturbed.
9. When finished, invite the child to put the materials away on a low shelf for future use.

Between 6 and 12 months of age, your baby can remember objects from one appearance to the next. The object permanence box directly aims to help children develop this sense of object permanence. Additionally, it gives them practice developing fine motor skills through the whole-hand grasp, and helps them develop focus and concentration.

If your baby doesn't seem interested at first, try again later— babies learn to love the box at different times. The Montessori object permanence box is a valuable tool in the infant/toddler environment, promoting important developmental skills.

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