The nativist approach to infant cognitive development proposes that infants are born with inherent knowledge structures that allow them to interpret the world almost immediately. This perspective contrasts with earlier developmental theories, such as those proposed by Jean Piaget, which emphasized a more gradual acquisition of cognitive abilities through interaction with the environment. One key concept in this approach is object permanence — the understanding that objects continue to exist even when out of view. Nativist research has revealed that infants as young as three to four months demonstrate an expectation that objects are substantial, meaning they resist interference from other objects and persist in time and space. This finding challenges Piaget's assertion that object permanence emerges only between five to eight months of environmental interaction.

The nativist framework is exemplified by Elizabeth Spelke's core knowledge theory, which argues that infants possess domain-specific systems of knowledge at birth. Spelke's research identifies four primary domains: object representation, spatial navigation, numerical sense, and language. Each domain contains specialized, evolutionarily adapted cognitive processes that prepare infants for survival and interaction with their surroundings. For instance, infants demonstrate an intuitive grasp of spatial relationships, an elementary sense of numbers, and sensitivity to the properties of physical objects. According to core knowledge theory, this predisposed knowledge base allows infants to interpret basic environmental cues and lays the groundwork for complex learning and cognitive development.

The core knowledge theory is heavily influenced by evolutionary psychology, suggesting that cognitive structures evolved to equip humans with survival-relevant skills from an early age. The prewiring of knowledge domains like object permanence and spatial awareness serves to optimize infants' ability to navigate their environment, interact with others, and process information relevant to survival.

However, the nativist approach has received criticism for potentially overlooking the role of social and environmental influences in cognitive development. Critics argue that while innate structures may guide infants' interactions with their surroundings, external factors — particularly social interactions — play a significant role in shaping and enhancing early cognition.