Auditory Object Permanence
Parent talks to baby while gradually walking away until out of sight, helping baby understand that sounds persist even when the source is invisible. The agent guides the parent to observe how baby tracks the voice, turns head to locate sounds, and responds to the disappearance — building auditory attention and early object permanence.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
What you'll need
Baby in a comfortable supported position with clear line of sight across the room. Parent standing in front of baby, able to walk away and eventually around a corner or behind furniture.
How it works
- 1~30s
Start by talking to your child from right in front of them — something cheerful and engaging. Then take a few steps to the side while still talking. Watch your child's head and eyes. Does they turn to follow your voice? Try moving to the other side. Can your child track you by turning their head in both directions? Tell me what you see.
Watch for: Baby turns head toward the source of parent's voice, showing ability to localise sound and coordinate head movement.
- 2~30s
Now start walking slowly away from your child while keeping up a steady stream of talking. Go further and further across the room. Watch your child's face — does they keep watching you? Does their expression change as you get further away? You might see them become more alert, concerned, or curious. Stop about halfway across the room and tell me what your child is doing.
Watch for: Baby visually tracks parent as they move away while talking — maintaining attention across increasing distance.
- 3~35s
Here's the key moment. Keep talking and now walk out of your child's sight — behind a wall, around a corner, or behind some furniture. Keep your voice going so your child can still hear you even though they can't see you. Watch closely — or have someone tell you — what your child does. Does they look toward where you disappeared? Does they seem confused, upset, or curious? Come back after a few seconds with a big smile and greeting. Tell me everything!
Watch for: Baby maintains stable head position while turning to look for the disappeared parent — showing head control when held upright or supported.