In Piaget's theory of cognitive development, which stage lasts from birth to about age 2 and features object permanence and imitative play?

• A. Sensorimotor
• B. Preoperational
• C. Concrete Operations
• D. Formal Operations

Answer: (A)

Object permanence and imitation are classic milestones of the early learning period when infants engage with the world through their senses and motor actions. This phase lasts from birth to about age 2 and is defined by learning through direct interaction rather than internal thinking about mental operations. During this time, babies begin to understand that objects exist even when not visible, and they start imitating others’ actions as a way to explore and learn. As development continues, thinking becomes more symbolic and later more abstract, which marks the transition to subsequent stages.