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Imaginary Friends
Creating a 'pretend friend', is common amongst preschoolers,
particularly girls and those children who are only children, or
whose siblings are much younger or older than themselves. Imaginary
friends serve many useful purposes to the child, and even though you
may feel a little disturbed at having to set an extra place at the
table for the make-believe friend, it is helpful to know that this
behaviour is common of a healthy and creative mind. Children can
derive great comfort and companionship from these 'friendships',
especially when left alone to sleep at night or when the child is
unable to fully express worry or anger to her parents. Listening to
conversations between the 'two' of them, can help you learn alot in
they way of what worries your child. Most children will give-up the
friend, once they have gained new useful friendships, or no longer
feel the need to constantly have 'someone' with them, which should
be before the age of seven.
There is no need for great concern during this stage, provided the
imaginary friend doesn't prevent the normal development and
interaction between the child's peers and family, and that you are
offering her ample opportunity for play with children of her own
age, and giving her the love and attention she deserves.
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