Explore the psychology behind why children invent imaginary companions and what skills they can develop through pretend play.

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Amia and her friend Zelba have been inseparable for nearly a year. They share secrets, play games, and rule over imaginary kingdoms. Amia sometimes has bad ideas, and Zelba goes along with them anyway. Amia is very real, but Zelba... is not. So, what leads kids to create these fictional figures? Explore why children invent imaginary companions and what skills they can develop through pretend play.

Directed by Caitlin McCarthy.

This video made possible in collaboration with the LEGO Group and the LEGO Foundation
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View full lesson: https://ed.ted.com/lessons/is-it-normal-to-have-imaginary-friends
Dig deeper with additional resources: https://ed.ted.com/lessons/is-it-normal-to-have-imaginary-friends/digdeeper

Animator's website: https://c8l.in
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