The Drawer Mystery

For babies around 9 months old · Object Permanence · Problem Solving · Fine Motor

Why this week matters

Around 9 months, your baby is working out one of the biggest ideas of babyhood: things still exist even when they disappear from view. This is called object permanence, and it grows in stages. First your baby learned to lift a scarf off a toy, then to watch a ball drop into a box. This week, we add a new twist — a hidden space that opens and closes. When your baby pulls open a drawer and finds the toy inside, you can almost see the "aha!" on their face.

This week's activity: The drawer mystery

You'll need: a small kitchen drawer, dabba, or box with a lid that your baby can open safely; 2–3 favourite small toys (big enough that they cannot be swallowed); a steady spot on the floor.

Sit on the floor with your baby and show them one toy. Let them hold it, mouth it, and inspect it first — this builds interest.
While they watch, slowly place the toy inside the drawer or box and close it. Say, "Where did the rattle go? It's inside!"
Pause and wait. Give your baby time to reach out, pull, or bang. If they need help, open the drawer a little so they can see a peek of the toy.
Celebrate when they find it: "You found it! It was inside the whole time!" Then close it and play again.
After a few rounds, let your baby take over — many babies love putting the toy in and shutting the drawer themselves.

Make it your own: Try hiding a toy inside a steel dabba with a loose lid, or under an overturned katori. You can also hide a toy in your closed fist and let your baby pry your fingers open — same idea, no equipment needed.

What your baby is learning

Object permanence — understanding that hidden things still exist. This is the same idea that later helps your baby cope when you leave the room: you still exist, and you come back.
Problem solving — figuring out the steps to get what they want: pull the drawer, look inside, grab the toy.
Fine motor control — gripping a knob or edge and pulling takes real hand and wrist strength, which your baby will use later for feeding, dressing, and writing.
Memory — holding the picture of the hidden toy in mind while working to reach it.

Make it easier with Kizoplay

Object Permanence Box with Drawer — ₹999. A Montessori classic sized for baby hands — drop the ball in the hole, then pull open the drawer to find it again, over and over. Shop now →

Good to know

Always use toys larger than your baby's fist so there is no choking risk, and check that drawers cannot pinch little fingers — stay close and guide their hands. And remember: every baby develops at their own pace. If your baby simply bangs the drawer this week, that is exploration too. The finding will come.

This is Week 38 of the Kizoplay 52-Week Play Series — one simple, science-backed activity for every week of your baby's first year. Explore all our Montessori play kits at kizoplay.com.