When you're searching for new toys for your toddler, baby dolls should be on the top of your list. They are a great way for you to teach your child empathy, patience, and how to care for others. In addition, kids often play out their emotions and use dolls as a way to understand the world and the relationships around them. Where adults see a doll as a simple toy, toddlers see it as a trusty companion. There are millions of dolls out there, which can make it feel impossible to choose, but we've made the task a whole lot easier for you. Simply check out this list of the best baby dolls for toddlers. Melissa & Doug Jenna Doll What a DollAn easy-care doll that toddlers love to play with all day long.Best OverallFind on Amazon Toddlers, as cute as they can be, are messy. Between food, boogers, and crafting materials, at some point or another, their toys and dolls will get dirty. That won’t be a problem for the Melissa &Doug Jenna Doll. This one is made to be completely washable. Anytime it gets dirty, simply wipe it down from top to bottom and throw the included romper in the laundry. It’ll come out as good as new, totally ready for another day. Pros: This realistic doll sucks on her thumb or pacifier When your child lays her down, she will close her eyes for a sleeping effect The materials of both the clothes and the doll itself are easy to wash and care for A soft body helps it feel real to your child She is perfectly sized for small hands Cons: There is a chemical smell out of the box, so you will need to clean it before giving it to your toddler The New York Doll Collection Soft Body Doll Perfect SizeAn adorable doll that is easily taken along when your family is on the go.Runner UpFind on Amazon If you’re searching for a small, adorable little doll that looks realistic and holds up well to the occasional rough-housing of toddlers playing, then The New York Doll Collection Soft Body Doll is just what you need. This super sweet baby doll comes in a variety of styles so you’re sure to find the one you are looking for. Meanwhile, kids love the baby’s cute little grin and fashionable clothes. Pros: Available in 5 styles for your convenience The soft body ensures that this doll is comfortable for cuddling Vinyl limbs are easy to clean and care for It is sized just right for easy travel, and we know how much toddlers like to carry their toys with them Cons: The hat falls off all the time Baby Alive Real As Can Be Baby Feature-RichGive your toddler a real experience with this little cutie.Most LifelikeFind on Amazon When you want to bypass the simple options and pull out all the stops, look no further than the Baby Alive Real As Can Be Baby. It has a ton of realistic features that help your child open up their imagination. She giggles, moves, and sleeps like a real baby, and when your toddler talks to her, she’ll even babble back. All things considered, she’s an adorable addition to your child’s toy collection and will quickly become a favorite. Pros: Has over 80 unique expressions This baby can babble, laugh, and make sleeping sounds Responds to your child’s voice The lifelike motions and sounds help toddlers feel like their baby is real Includes several accessories for added convenience Cons: This doll is pricey Dolls to Play Soft Body Baby Doll Set All-InclusiveA fun set that provides lots of play options for your toddler.Best SetFind on Amazon Having a doll to play with opens up your toddler to a world of fun, but sometimes it feels like something is missing. What could that be? Well, accessories, of course. The Dolls to Play Soft Body Baby Doll Set is super cute and comes with clothes, shoes, toys, and even little hangers to keep track of the outfits. That means your toddler can play pretend and change their baby just as you would change yours. Doesn’t that sound fun? Pros: This doll is super cute and has a realistic look to it The soft body is cuddly and easy to change Your toddler will love the trendy little outfits that this doll comes with It is the perfect size to take on the go This doll is easy to care for and keep clean Cons: There are no strollers or beds included Cabbage Patch Kids Newborn Baby Doll Cute and AffordableThis toy classic is just as cute and fun as always.Best on a BudgetFind on Amazon Everyone recognizes the Cabbage Patch Kids Newborn Baby Doll; after all, she’s been a favorite for toddlers and kids for generations, and what makes her even better is the affordable price tag. This doll comes with a fun little adoption certificate and a comfy swaddle blanket for added entertainment and convenience. Your toddler is sure to love her. Pros: This doll is small and perfectly sized for toddler’s hands Very affordable Comes in a variety of styles and colors Has the signature Cabbage Patch scent She sucks her thumb for added realism Cons: The soft body is hard to keep clean Frequently Asked Questions At what ages are dolls developmentally appropriate? Dolls are an educational object. They are typically the perfect toy to introduce around 18-24 months because that’s when toddlers start to play pretend and mimic interactions they see in their real life. Some kids play with dolls until they hit puberty, or even a bit beyond, at which point they begin to focus more on other things, like their social lives. What can dolls teach toddlers? Dolls teach toddlers all about empathy and care for others. They are more often used as a tool to give children an outlet for acting out their emotions. Many children need some help adjusting to new siblings or other changes in their lives, and dolls help them to do that by providing their own little friend.