Can you recommend me a doll <I'm getting so confused>

[buzzing]

I would like to suggest to the DGP that they buy each of my daughters a doll this year (they are just turned 3, and nearly 5). Currently, they each have a "first doll" type that is quite small & has a fabric body so can't sit up etc.

But there are so many to choose from, I'm getting myself all in a muddle

What I really want is just a doll, not one that cries real tears or poops real poo, just one that they can dress & undress, move arms and legs, sit up to feed meals to and generally baby.

Any recommendations?

And I'm sure I've seen people talk about buying small baby clothes to fit dolls. Is this right?

Baby Annabell is best I think. Dd has the one that cries and laughs and snores! but you can get ones that don't do anything.

ToysRUs are quite good for dolls. Their You and Me ones (own brand?) cover different niches of the market and they have loads of accessories.

Our favourite baby doll was a big, Baby Annabel sized one that made a few noises but was still soft and squishy. It was about £15 in Argos, Baby Ella if I remember right.

Look for a doll brand that does lots of accessories so you'll be sorted for present ideas for the next few years- baby born/ Annabel, or just grab a toy catalogue and see which brand takes up a whole page!

I've found it hard to find clothes to fit DD's 12" doll which seemed a nice size for her when I bought it but if I had my time back I'd buy an 18" as there are more options.

Do you have a preference for plastic or fabric? You can get fabric dolls that sit up with posable arms and legs (IKEA do a cheapish one, you can pay mad money on a proper Waldorf one). Cuddly and nice for bed if that's a factor?

I prefer baby born over baby annabel as its plastic so they can take it into the bath to play with as well. I find its slightly more versatile but it's personal opinion.