Caring for Baby Doll Together
Take care of a baby doll together — feeding, rocking, and tucking it in — to build empathy and nurturing skills in your toddler.
What You'll Need
- 1Baby doll
- 2Small blanket
- 3Toy bottle or cup
- 4Washcloth for pretend bath
What You'll Need
A baby doll (any size works)
A small blanket for swaddling
A toy bottle or small cup
A washcloth for pretend bath time
How to Play
Bring out the baby doll and a few care items.
Tell your toddler: "Baby is hungry! Can you help feed her?"
Show them how to hold the bottle to the doll's mouth gently.
Wrap the doll in the blanket together: "Baby is sleepy. Let's tuck her in."
Encourage rocking and shushing: "Shhhh, night night, baby."
Create a little scenario: "Oh no, baby is crying! What should we do?"
Let your toddler choose how to help — hugs, pats, kisses, singing, rocking.
Why It Works
When toddlers care for a doll, they're rehearsing empathy. They're practicing reading emotional cues ("baby is crying") and responding with compassion ("let's give a hug"). This activity also helps them process their own experiences — being fed, rocked, comforted — from a new perspective. It's especially powerful for toddlers adjusting to a new sibling. Doll play is linked to stronger empathy and nurturing behavior throughout childhood.
Tips
Boys benefit from doll play just as much as girls. Caring is a human skill, not a gendered one.
Let your toddler be rough with the doll sometimes. Gently redirect: "Baby likes gentle touches" rather than scolding.
Add scenarios from their life: "Baby needs to go to the doctor" or "Baby's tummy hurts."
This is wonderful preparation if you're expecting a new baby. It normalizes caregiving routines.
Age Adaptation Tips
Toddlers learn through repetition. Keep it simple, expect mess, and let them explore at their own pace. Demonstrate first, then let them try.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 15 min, with 5 min of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: baby doll, small blanket, toy bottle or cup, washcloth for pretend bath.
What age is this activity for?
This activity is designed for 1-3 years. You can adapt it for younger or older children by adjusting the complexity.
Can this be done indoors?
This activity is designed for indoor play, making it perfect for rainy days or when you're staying inside.
How difficult is this activity?
This is an easy activity that requires minimal setup and supervision. Great for busy days or when you need something quick.
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