The best dolls for four-year-old girls

Your child may be very into imaginative play, copying what mom and dad or other special adults do during everyday life. With a doll, your child can pretend to be a parent, sibling, friend, and a whole range of other roles. Our top choices for best dolls are great gifts for the special four-year-old in your life.

An essential part of childhood is dramatic play. These dolls help your child build skills and allow children to “try on” different roles that they see around them. Whether your child is practicing caregiving or just needs a friend, our favorite dolls are great choices.

Kindi Kids Snack Time Friends

Best Overall

The Kindi Kids Snack Time friends collection is a glittery, shiny, extra fun doll with Shopkins accessories. The accessories are interactive, and the doll's hair is soft and shiny. Each option is a collectible and suitable for preschool to elementary-age children looking for something more than a baby doll. They're nine-inch dolls and come in a variety of styles.

Barbie Dreamtopia Rainbow Lights Mermaid Doll

Best with Fun Features

Mermaid Barbie features a fun light show when your child puts her in water. Push the on button on her necklace, and water-activated lights make bath time something special. She features long, pink-streaked hair and a tiara, along with a rainbow tail. She runs on one CR123A battery and is durable, even with frequent baths.

Skyrocket Blume Doll

Best Giftable Doll

This fun gift offers a unique surprise. Simply add water to the pot and watch as your doll's hair grows right through the top. You never know what hair you'll get. Once your doll has "grown," the pot becomes a mini playset with a surprise outfit and accessory pack. There are multiple colors and styles available, and each pot comes with over ten different fun little surprises.

As your child learns about the world, dolls play an important part in that exploration. They’re great for understanding caregiving and provide comfort and a friend for your child. Our favorites on this list are excellent for gifts or to make the special child in your life smile just because.