The Very Real Benefits for Children with Imaginary Friends

If your child has an imaginary friend they are not alone. Over 60% of children between the ages of three and seven will have at least one of these friends. It was once thought children will outgrow their imaginary friends by age five but newer studies have shown that this is not true. Children as old as seven and eight can have imaginary friends. These often-complex characters usually serve some sort of purpose in the child’s life. Boys and girls are as equally likely to conjure imaginary pals.

Imaginary friends come in many shapes and sizes. Pirates, dinosaurs, parrots, tigers and astronauts are just a few examples. Quite often imaginary friends can change form, age or even species. Sometimes these friends live in your home with your child while others simply pop by once in a while for a visit. These friends can have complex lives and personalities. Some children develop secret languages with their imaginary friends. They can also become very mischievous and take the blame for your child’s mistakes.

When you realize your child has an imaginary friend you should know there is no reason for alarm. It can be a quite natural and useful growing tool for your child. The emergence of this type of companion can often coincide with the bloom of your child’s imagination.

These friendships have a lot of positive effects on a child. They help children explore a strange world that may sometimes seem frightening. This allows them to explore the different aspects of their personality and face fears or misconceptions. Children can take on the roll of authority with their imaginary friend. They may act as the dentist, doctor, mother, father or teacher. This play can also help a child master and understand discipline, impulse control and the art of being truthful and kind.

These companions quite often help a child deal with stressful situations. They may need a constant pal to help them through the first day of school, a trip to the doctor or walking past the scary house down the street. Imaginary friends also can create a safe atmosphere for a child to learn problem solving, social skills and relationship skills.

You can often learn a lot about your child if you observe them interacting with their imaginary friend. Conversations between the child and the friend can give you vital information about things that may be bothering your child. Listen carefully to what your child is saying about their friend. They are often telling you something about themselves. If your child says their friend is scared of the dark then it is most likely your child’s own fear. This can give you important clues as to the state of their emotions.

There is no need to discourage your child from playing and interacting with their imaginary companion. If they want a place for them at the dinner table then you can go ahead and set one. Don’t over encourage them though. If they are blaming their accidents and misdeeds on their friend remind them of the rules and help your child clean up the mess or suggest they make the proper apologies.

Quite often an imaginary friend is there to explore the world with your child. However, there is a situation that may signal a potential problem. If your child spends a majority of their time with the imaginary pal and refuses to relate with real children, they may have a problem that needs addressed. Encourage your child to have real friends and introduce them to social situations.

Imaginary play can be a stimulating and life enhancing activity for your child. Remember that it is a normal part of growing up for some children and it signifies a strong and creative mind. In a world of video games, endless television programming and high tech games, this can be a breath of fresh air for any parent.