How to Make Your Child Forget Imaginary Friends

At first, you thought of your child's creation of Mr. Bright side and Mrs. Periwinkle as quite brilliant. You've probably heard and read that children, especially preschoolers, go through a stage of having imaginary friends. Although it is a normal part of growth and an indicator of brain development, sometimes you just can't help but get annoyed.

Perhaps some of your child's decisions depend on his imaginary friends. You may find it worrisome why he won't let you sit on a chair because his pal was supposedly seated there first. You may even find it scary sometimes when your child suddenly talks to the void behind you. Here are some steps on how to make your child forget imaginary friends.

1. Reality.

One painful but effective method of letting your child accept is to tell him that his friends are imaginary. It is very likely that your child understands and knows that he doesn't really see or hear anybody else except himself. Bring him back to reality and tell him that, sooner or later, big boys won't be seeing much of Mr. Bright side and Mrs. Periwinkle, and he has to make new friends -- real ones.

2. Triggers.

One of the main reasons why children create imaginary friends is because their brain activity is stimulated by a variety of triggers. Examples of these triggers are television, video games and animated books. You have to limit and set the time for your child to indulge in visual stimulation to help him forget about his current imaginary friends and avoid creating new ones.

3. Diversion.

Most children who spend much of their time alone, hanging out with their unreal pals, do not have siblings or real live friends to play with. Provide opportunities for your child to enjoy the outdoors and learn how to build friendships with other children his age. If his thoughts are preoccupied with sports, hobbies or worthwhile activities, it is very likely that his intense imaginations will be kept at bay.

4. Conversation.