Posted by: Laura Cook, PhD , Jenny Phan, PhD on Jun 04, 2025


Typically, imaginary friends appear in preschool and early childhood and most times come and go without concern. Here are a few guiding principles in embracing this fun expression of your child’s imagination.

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Pediatric News You Can Use From America’s Largest Pediatric Hospital and Research Center

700 Children’s® features the most current pediatric health care information and research from our pediatric experts – physicians and specialists who have seen it all. Many of them are parents and bring a special understanding to what our patients and families experience. If you have a child – or care for a child – 700 Children’s was created especially for you.

Latest Posts

Early Motor Milestones: What to Expect in Your Child 6-12 Months

May 19, 2016

The other day we discussed early motor milestones for babies from birth to six months. Here are some guidelines for what to look for in your older baby. Six months: By six months, your baby should be able to sit up for brief periods of time without support from you. Read More

Early Motor Milestones: What to Expect in Your Child 0-6 Months

May 17, 2016

Do you understand how important movement is and when, or how, your baby should start moving? Here’s some insight from a parent — and pediatric physical therapist. Read More

girl with face on hand

Stress and Physical Symptoms: When It's Not Just in Your Head

Apr 14, 2016

Most people know that when we have an illness, how we feel physically affects how we feel mentally. So, it should come as no surprise that mental feelings can have the opposite effect and change our physical state. Read More

Child with hearing aids in.

Helping Your Child Adjust To Hearing Aids

Mar 24, 2016

Each year, thousands of school-aged children and newborn babies are diagnosed with some degree of hearing loss. For many of these kids, hearing aids will become the gateway to the world of sounds around them. Read More

Is Strength Training Safe for Kids?

Mar 01, 2016

The safety and effectiveness of children participating in strength training has previously been a source of great debate. However, despite previous misconceptions there is now evidence supporting strength training by pre-adolescent and adolescent children and its acceptance by medical and fitness Read More

massage therapy for children.

Benefits of Massage Therapy for Children

Feb 25, 2016

Your young ones are more active than ever, in mind and in body. Teaching them to manage stress and body awareness while they are young can help prevent a lifetime of chronic pain and poor habits. Read More

thoughtful looking girl

Eating Disorders: Awareness is the First Step

Feb 23, 2016

As the medical director of Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s Eating Disorders Program, I am a passionate advocate, but I must be honest – I was skeptical when asked to write about National Eating Disorders Awareness Week. Read More

Cholesterol Screening for Kids - When Should Your Child be Tested?

Feb 03, 2016

You probably know that you need to get your blood lipids, or cholesterol, checked regularly as a way to understand your risk for cardiovascular disease. But you might wonder why your 10 year old needs to have her cholesterol checked. Read More