Giving your little one their very own doll is practically a childhood rite of passage these days. Whether it was specially made to look just like them or is a garden-variety baby doll they insist on snuggling up with each and every night, you can't deny their little friends make their life sweeter. Can't decide if you should go with the latest American Girl Doll or an animatronic version that acts like a real baby? No sweat! We've rounded up the very best dolls your kids won't be able to put down.
We absolutely love Luciana, American Girl's 2018 Girl of the Year ($115). Luciana loves all things STEM- and science-related and aspires to be the first girl to set foot on Mars, which is pretty stinkin' cool. And her accessories? They're out of this world. For an extra cost, kids can pick up a sweet robotic dog, a high-tech maker station, and a Mars habitat.
When it comes to finding a baby doll that acts just like the real thing, Baby Alive ($37) is as close as you can get. We're talking about the works. She crawls, reacts to talking and tickling, and can even drink and wet herself just like a real infant. And seriously, who doesn't love the baby carrier accessory?
Finally, a toymaker who understands that people come in different shapes, sizes, and colors! Artist Crystal Kaye, the brains behind these Custom Vitiligo Dolls ($125 and up) that promote inclusivity, carefully makes each one.
Remember when you begged your parents for one of these growing up? Yeah, we thought so! Cabbage Patch Dolls ($20) are back in, and we're soaking up all the nostalgia. It's never too late to score your own, too, right?
This line of Disney dolls is perfect for little hands since each princess was reimagined to look like a toddler. Pick from an Elena of Avalor Doll ($27) or stick with classic characters like Snow White.
If you're constantly playing the bad guy with your mini me at home, prepare to have to take on yet another crime fighter. Wonder Crew's Superhero Marco ($21) will be an instant hit with any aspiring superhero.
For many millennial mamas, this adorable "newborn" Bitty Baby ($60) is a classic. And what better way to celebrate your kiddo than buying them the very same doll their mom had growing up? Made of soft plastic, it comes in many skin tones and is even sent home with a personalized birth announcement.
Talk about the first of its kind! Aamina the Talking Muslim Doll ($108) is the only talking doll with Muslim ties on the market. She speaks both English and Arabic, which means any little one growing up in a bilingual home will cherish her for years to come.
A soft, superplush buddy is the perfect gift for any kiddo in need of a friend when bedtime rolls around. Joey Nod Baby Doll ($29) comes with a pretty sleep sack, night cap, blanket, and diaper.