 TED-Ed: Do imaginary friends make you smarter?

Do imaginary friends make you smarter?

Amia and her friend Zelba have been inseparable for nearly a year. They share secrets, play games, and rule over imaginary kingdoms. Amia sometimes has bad ideas, and Zelba goes along with them anyway. Amia is very real, but Zelba... is not. So, what leads kids to create these fictional figures? Explore why children invent imaginary companions and what skills they can develop through pretend play. [Directed by Caitlin McCarthy, narrated by Alexandra Panzer, music by Salil Bhayani, cAMP Studio].

Imaginary companions are a common, healthy part of childhood, appearing in about two-thirds of US kids under 8. These invented friends let children explore emotions, test boundaries, and practice navigating complex social situations safely. Research shows that kids with invisible companions often become better storytellers and develop stronger empathy. The skills honed through pretend play can benefit relationships and self-understanding long into adulthood.

Imaginary Friends Shape Real Social And Emotional Skills

Imaginary companions are a normal and even beneficial part of many children's development. Nearly 67% of US kids under 8 have had some form of invisible companion, from whimsical playmates to personified stuffed animals. These companions allow children to experiment with emotions, practice social skills, and strengthen their ability to understand others' minds. Far from being a concern, these invisible relationships lay the groundwork for empathy, creativity, and lifelong self-reflection.

Imaginary Friends Help Children Grow In Unexpected Ways

Imaginary companions are a normal and valuable part of many children’s development, often appearing in kids around age 3 or 4 who lack nearby siblings. Nearly 67% of American children under eight have invented these invisible friends, who can take any form from fairy-tale creatures to talking toys. Far from being a cause for concern, these relationships help children practice storytelling, empathy, and handling emotions. Pretend play with invisible companions lays the groundwork for lifelong social and emotional skills.