Understanding Child Development

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Many young children invent imaginary companions (IC) in the early years, also known as imaginary friends.

An IC may be entirely invisible, or embodied in a toy or other object. As many as two-thirds of children report having an IC at some point during childhood.

But is having an IC healthy for children? Some parents worry that having an imaginary friend might stand in the way of building real-life friendships, stunting their social-emotional growth and challenging their reality-orientation.

Research suggests, however, that having an IC is not only a normal childhood experience, but it serves to provide the child with opportunities to practice theory of mind, representing what others are potentially thinking. Imaginary friends can improve a child’s capacity for empathy and understanding others’ perspectives.

Author Peter Carnavas explores imaginary friendship in his chapter book for elementary-aged children, Leo and Ralph, a sweet story of imagination and being loved for who we are.

Heather Rose Artushin (HRA): Share a bit about your background and what inspired you to write Leo and Ralph.

Peter Carnavas (PC): I write and........

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