Doll play grows with your child. In the early months, a soft-bodied doll works much like a plush toy or lovey: something safe to hold and cuddle. Around 18 months, children start copying what they see, feeding and putting dolls to bed, which is where doll clothes and a dollhouse come in.
For more of the same kind of play, browse pretend play sets and board books, both of which build language and storytelling. Dolls make lovely birthday gifts too: see our baby gift sets, or browse all our non-toxic baby toys. Our toddler play and learning checklist has more ideas for this stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age is a first baby doll for?
Soft-bodied cloth dolls with no small parts are suitable from the early months, when a baby uses them much like a comfort toy. Real doll play, feeding, dressing and putting the doll to bed, usually starts around 18 months to 2 years.
Why choose a soft-bodied cloth doll?
A cloth doll is light, huggable and safe to fall on, which suits babies and young toddlers better than a hard-bodied doll. Organic cotton dolls are also gentle against the skin and easy to wash.
Is doll play good for children?
Yes. Caring for a doll helps children practice empathy, language and everyday routines like feeding, dressing and bedtime. It benefits all children, and it's especially useful when a new sibling is on the way.
Can dolls go in the crib?
Not before 12 months. Keep soft toys and dolls out of your baby's sleep space for the first year, in line with safe sleep guidance, and use them for supervised, awake play.
Will the doll clothes fit other dolls?
Our doll clothes are designed for the Apple Park dolls in this collection. They may fit other dolls of a similar size, but check the measurements on the product page before buying for a doll from another brand.
How do I wash a cloth doll?
Most organic cotton dolls can be surface washed or hand washed in cool water and left to air dry, since stuffing takes a long time to dry through. Always check the care label, especially for dolls with embroidered features.
What age is a dollhouse suitable for?
Wooden dollhouses usually suit children from around 3 years, when they can play with smaller pieces safely and enjoy making up stories. Check the age guidance on the product page, as pieces may be a choking hazard for younger siblings.
Do dolls make good first birthday gifts?
A soft doll is a lovely first or second birthday gift, and it stays in use for years as play develops. Pair it with a set of doll clothes for a gift that feels complete. See more ideas in our baby gift sets.
