Nursery World - A parent's guide toimaginary friends

Many young children have imaginary friends, and it is certainly nothing to worry about. Instead, it should be viewed as a sign of a child with a good imagination. While you may have concerns regarding your child having an imaginary friend, it is important not to dismiss their existence or make too much of an issue of things. A child is only likely to get upset if you tell them that their 'friend' does not exist.

While you may have concerns regarding your child having an imaginary friend, it is important not to dismiss their existence or make too much of an issue of things. A child is only likely to get upset if you tell them that their 'friend' does not exist.

My daughter insists on setting a place at the table for her imaginary friend. Should I be worried about this?

Your child is learning social skills from her imaginary friend and is simply doing what she would do for anyone who comes to tea. But this can cause frustration for parents who have to make allowances for an extra table setting, or room in the car for the imaginary friend on a journey.

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