When I was little I did not really play with dolls, but I had dozens of “stuffies,” plush animals that I brought into bed with me every night. Every little child should have a constant companion, a friend that is so much more than the sum of its stitches and fabric parts.
We know that everyone has different taste, so please also check our Toys to Trust Guide for more tips and suggestions and browse the selections at our full list of Retailers of Toys to Trust so you can pick out the doll or plush friend your child will treasure.
Get Crafty (#1-2): We love the pieced together look of the hand-sewn Yo-Yo Elephant Doll ($24 at Craftsbury Kids). And this Elephant Infant Soft Toy by Kathy Kruse ($18 at Tiddley Widdley) is so lovely, you won’t want to put it away.
Organic Dolls and Plush Animals (#3-6): Since babies chew on everything, why not give yours something healthy? Our Green House has a range of organic options, like this Cozy Cuddle Doll ($25) and lots of friends and sweet natural animals ($8 and up). Oompa has an entire category of adorable organic dolls and plush friends, like this Kallisto Dragon ($56.99 at Oompa Toys). We also like these sweet Gnome Dolls ($35 at Natural Pod).
Traditionally and Magically Sweet (#7-9): Soft dolls that look like real (or magical little) children help kids act out their feelings and dreams. Lotta The Doll from Haba and the other Haba Dolls are embroidered so they are safe for the littlest ones. And they look and dress like real children, how refreshing! Haba manufactures these dolls in China, but under the strictest supervision ($43.99 from Oompa Toys). And if your little one likes fairies, she’ll fall in love with Waldorf Flippippi Blossom Butterfly, from Kathe Kruse ($69.99 from Oompa Toys) or Lizzie, the Le Toy Van Fairy Doll ($18 from Tiddley Widdley).
Edgy Cuddling (#10-12): Unusual dolls need love, too. After all, it is what is on the inside that counts. Duck Duck Goose is the place for unusual picks like Deglingos ($40), or Ugly Dolls ($12-22). Also check out the brightly colored creatures from Pooki and Co ($25-29 at Oompa Toys).
Recently Reviewed Favorites: We’ve reviewed and recommend Reversible (Topsy Turvy) Dolls, handmade traditional story dolls from HandCrafting Justice; Karito Kids, hip fashion dolls that show caring and giving are cool; and Lindie & Friends, huggable, handmade friends with an adorably retro look and unique personalities.
Doll and Plush Animal Safety
With toys made entirely of fabric, lead paint is less of a concern–just check for any painted-on features and take extra precautions with these items. Those who prefer old favorites may want to shop at a specialty store, like StuffedAnimals.com™, which caries a wide variety of popular stuffed animals, dolls, and puppets, including brand names, like Gund and Melissa & Doug (which manufactures in China with strict control and careful testing), and licensed characters.
Please remember with any doll or plush animal avoid buttons and stick with embroidery for the youngest babies, and make sure seams are not coming apart.
Coupons for These and Other Safer Dolls and Plush Friends:
- Craftsbury Kids: Get 10% off with code “mama07”. (12/12/07)
- Duck Duck Goose: Get 10% off with coupon code groove…plus free shipping on all orders $60 and up!
- Natural Pod: Get 10% off with coupon code “MAMANISTA10” at check out. (vaild until December 5th, 2007)
- StuffedAnimals.com™ – 15% off any order. Use coupon code SAVE37 at checkout.
- Our full list of Retailers of Toys to Trust
