Is your toddler’s new best friend an imaginary one? Should you play along?
What You Need to Know
Between the ages of three and five, many young children have imaginary friends. The best plan of action for you is to simply relax. Your child is curious and creative and exploring his or her world.
- At a younger age, imaginary friends are more likely to be based on an object such as a stuffed animal.
- Children with active imaginations generally become adults who are curious and creative.
- Imaginary friends allow children to explore relationships.
- If a child prefers to play with his or her imaginary friend and avoids meaningful interaction with other kids, you might want to get the advice of a professional to see if there are any concerns.
How You Can Help
Try to enjoy this creative time in your child’s life. Anita Gurian, Ph.D. suggests that you, “Don't discourage or belittle the relationship, but don't become too involved either.”
- Let your child have his or her imaginary friend. Acknowledge the friend, but don’t draw too much attention to him or her.
- Don’t let your child blame everything on the imaginary friend. Your child should accept responsibility for his or her actions.
For more on this topic, see the complete article:
http://www.education.com/reference/article/Ref_When_Your_Childs_New/
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