It depends on the child. You might assume that only very young children have imaginary friends, but research has shown that older kids have imaginary pals, too. Or the friend might be a stuffed animal or toy that they role-play with. Little Emma talks to her stuffed bear regularly. Eshleman says not to worry.
It might feel awkward when your child discusses their imaginary friend with you. But Dr. Or talk to them about what they did with their friend today. Studies have even found there may be some benefits for development in those children who create imaginary companions. In the past, experts believed having an imaginary friend indicated an issue or a mental health condition.
According to current research , this thinking has been discredited. Older research found 28 percent of children ages 5 to 12 had imaginary friends. Having an imaginary friend can help a child explore relationships and work their creativity. If your child tells you about their imaginary friend, ask questions. You can learn more about your child, their interests, and what the imaginary friend may be doing for them.
It can also help to play along. Set an extra place at dinner, or ask your child if their friend is coming on trips, for instance. If your child or their pretend friend becomes demanding or causes problems, you can set boundaries. Plus, setting boundaries can be a teaching moment.
While most imaginary friends are thought of as kind, friendly, and obedient, not all have been described as so. Some have been called disruptive, rule breaking, or aggressive. These more difficult relationships may still help a child navigate social relationships and cope with hard times in the real world.
Every child is different and will grow out of this part of their lives at their own time. There are more reports of children under 7 with imaginary friends, though other reports have shown imaginary friends existing in children up to 12 years old. When it comes to a vivid imagination, parents may question whether their child is in fact experiencing hallucinations or psychosis. You should always be in good connection with your child. I maginary friends will not be around forever. Some imaginary friends go away while some get replaced by others.
So let your children imagine, let them have fun. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Accept Read More. First Name. Language preference English Serbian. Imaginary friends come in all shapes and sizes. They can be based on someone your child already knows, a storybook character or even a soft toy.
These friends might always be there, or they might come and go. They might exist only in certain spots like the cubby house or at the kitchen table. And they might appear and disappear for no apparent reason.
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