Ted Friend

Ok! So over a year ago, Bryce starts talking about his friend Ted. I ask him where he met Ted and he says, "Mom, he's pretend." I was like, okay...I think. He makes up stories about how Ted's parents are mean so he wants to come live with us because Bryce has nice parents! Pretty cool! We are already the cool parents that pretend friends want to hang out with. He starts rolling down the car window saying he has to let Ted in. He draws family pictures with Ted in them. He also explains to people about their adventures. Ted is really becoming a part of our family and I got a little concerned.



I do A LOT of research on imaginary friends. I worry that Bryce may be missing something in his life and picks Ted to fill it. To my relief the research shows that it is part of a VERY active imagination and is healthy. Whew! I rest easy and welcome the stories about Ted because they really are entertaining.



Bryce can hold on two parts of the conversation with Ted. He does his voice and then changes it and answers his own questions with Ted's voice. I know...it's a little creepy but just think of the cognitive ability to carry on with two parts of a conversation. Some kids can't even carry on one part. So I am sorta proud and sorta wierded out.



I thought this Ted thing would phase out after a couple months, but Ted has been part of our family now for over a year ( I guess he really does like living with us)! Recently Ted has reached all new heights. Leah was talking in the car and I asked her what she was saying. She said, " I'm talking to Ted, Mom." NOOOOO! Not you too!! Now Ted has befriended Leah.



I have come to accept Ted as just a part of our family. I mean really, it doesn't do too much harm, except now Bryce and Leah are fighting over him. Yep, you heard me, FIGHTING OVER A FAKE FRIEND!!



Leah was talking on her fake phone and I asked who she was talking to. She replied, "Ted Friend."

Bryce says, "He is my friend and not yours!"

Leah replies, "NO, he is my Ted Friend!!"

This goes on for about a minute until I tell them they have to share TED. OH my gosh! I just entered into a different world of motherhood. Telling your kids to share a pretend friends. Nothing amazes me anymore! HAHA!

Bryce and Leah (Ted not pictured)