We look for ease of manipulation and realistic representation. If a child cannot dress the doll themselves because the clothes are too tight or the fasteners are too fiddly, it becomes a source of frustration. We select dolls with clothing designed for small hands to support independence and self-help skills.
Anatomical neutrality or correctness and diverse representation are key selection criteria. We choose dolls that look like children, not adults, to encourage age-appropriate projection and play. We also look for soft-bodied dolls for younger children, as they are easier to cuddle and manipulate than rigid plastic versions.
We also value accessories that mirror real life. Items like carriers, beds, or feeding sets extend the play into complex sequencing, where a child plans a narrative and follows it through.
