Is it okay for 8 year old children to have imaginary friends?

Answer by  BrokenRose (131)

If she's just pretending, then I think it's fine. It would become an issue if she actually thought there was someone there. Then she would need some sort of help. It may also be an issue if she is getting teased about it among her peers. It could make her an outcast which can cause damaging emotional effects.

Answer by  bentham (159)

JK Rowling has imaginary friends - Harry Potter. Nobody criticizes her those friends. Harry and company are kept in perspective and become a healthy outlet for imagination. In moderation, that is.

Answer by  tamarawilhite (17883)

If the child has an imaginary friend while playing by herself, this is normal. The time to be concerned is if the child has few or no real friends.