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Preteens

8 year old has imaginary friends

2 replies

ontheshore · 15/03/2021 16:15

Hi all,

Just a quick one - my 8 year old has a very active imagination and lately has decided she has lots of imaginary pets.

This wouldn't be a problem only now at school she is not engaging with other children and instead plays by herself with the 'cats and dogs'.

  • Are imaginary friends/pets/beings to be expected at this age?
  • How can I encourage her to engage with other children?


She is generally very confident and outgoing though probably worth mentioning she is an only child and due to Covid hasn't been around many other children over the last year.

She is a member of various clubs and activities but I'm worried she'll end up an outsider if she continues to play alone.

Any help, advice or experiences would be very welcome.

Thanks
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PattyPan · 15/03/2021 17:41

Sounds normal to me. Have you asked her why she doesn't want other children to join her game?

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genoveva89 · 23/03/2021 03:37

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