The Best Dolls for Babies and Toddlers
Let the pretend play (and social-emotional development) begin!
Dolls are the classic toy that tops the list of playroom must-haves (among blocks, stuffed animals and baby books). They’re the perfect vessel to spark hours of open-ended, pretend play. They also inspire creativity and imagination and help teach toddlers valuable social-emotional skills (even pretend babies need a little nurturing). While they’re busy changing diapers and reading bedtime stories, you’ll get a peek into everything your toddler is learning from you when you’re taking care of them, which is really sweet to see!
There are many different dolls to choose from as well. Plush and soft-bodied dolls are great for babies and younger toddlers. Some harder plastic-bodied dolls are made with anatomically accurate private parts, which can be a great tool for learning body parts and during potty training. Dolls also are a wonderful way to teach your little one to embrace the differences among us (as are these great books about diversity)! When choosing dolls to add to their collection, we recommend picking those that they can see themselves in and those that look different.
We’ve gathered a few of our favorite baby dolls to help you find your little one’s next companion.
Best Doll Accessories for Toddlers
Everything they’ll need to care for their little babes.