 TED-Ed: E normal să ai prieteni imaginari?

E normal să ai prieteni imaginari?

Amia și prietena ei, Zelba, sunt nedespărțite de aproape un an. Își împărtășesc secrete, se joacă și domnesc peste regate imaginare. Uneori, Amia are idei proaste, iar Zelba le acceptă oricum. Amia e foarte reală, dar Zelba... nu e. Deci, ce îi determină pe copii să creeze aceste personaje fictive? Descoperă de ce copiii inventează prieteni imaginari și ce abilități pot dezvolta prin jocul de rol. [Regia: Caitlin McCarthy, narator: Alexandra Panzer, muzică: 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.