I promise....Tom and I are not just voices in your head OR imaginary friends! We are real people! And in this episode, we share some important information that parents need to hear about the imaginary friends your kids may have. We get real in this episode too. They have popped up in both of our families.

The Session: Imaginary Friends

Research suggests that imaginary friends are normal for children and can have many benefits.

II Timothy 2:7: Think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.

· A best friend is someone who is supportive and reliable.

· Benefits of an imaginary friend

You receive: attention, affirmation, approval, acceptance

· Cognitive development -imaginary friends can help children develop skills like perspective-taking, problem-solving, and social communication.

· Emotional well-being-Imaginary friends can help children learn how to deal with difficult emotions and may be a coping mechanism for stress, trauma, or loneliness.

· Social skills -Imaginary friends can help children practice interacting with others and their environment.

· Creativity -Children with imaginary friends tend to be more creative and confident.

· Insight into a child's mind -Watching a child interact with an imaginary friend can help parents learn more about their child's thoughts, feelings, likes, and dislikes. Research Educational and Child Psychology , 34 (3)

5 purposes for having an imaginary friend

In 2017, researchers described these five purposes for having an imaginary friend:

1. problem-solving and emotion management

2. exploring ideals

3. having a companion for fantasy play

4. having someone to overcome loneliness

5. allowing children to explore behaviors and roles in relationships

Focus On The Family

Imaginary friends are normal. The imaginary friend will usually disappear as your child matures and builds friendships with real-life peers.

When will imaginary friends usually appear?

Is there an age where a parent should be concerned if the imaginary friend is still present and very involved with their child?