Christmas Toddler Toys.. Cuddly animals and dolls

Until they are about one year old, babies do not really relate to their cuddlies except as something to hold, but as they grow, they can be a huge comfort to them, and become the characters who play an important part in their first games of imaginative play.

Dolls and bears that come with clothes to take on and off and with features like laces, buttons and poppers for older toddlers to master, have an added playful learning value.

Antoine the Donkey Knitted Granimal £16.90, 12mths+ This gorgeous floppy knitted animal comes in a gift box, and is machine washable at 30 degrees C. www.soup-dragon.co.uk	Quby Collection: Leotop Lion £25, 18 mths+ A quirky new collection of square cuddly toys destined for lifelong companionship. They are made from bright textured fabrics with great faces, and also feature a zippered ‘hideaway’ pocket for little owners to store their secret treasures.  www.hippychick.com	Large Rag Doll £22, birth+ A soft rag doll can be a lovely alternative to hard conventional dolls for smaller children as it doubles up as a cuddly, and isn’t just about playing ‘mummies’. www.marksandspencer.com
My First Baby Annabell Brother Doll £14.95, 12mths+ Although this doll does not have as many features as regular Baby Annabell dolls, its simplicity ensures that there aren’t too many small parts – that means it’s suitable from an earlier age than most regular plastic dolls. www.johnlewis.com	Charlie Bears Organic Fifi Bunny Rabbit £20, from birth This whole range of organic toys is baby safe, environmentally friendly, and adorable to boot! Fifi’s cotton fleece is of great comfort to little fingers and cheeks, and her ears are good for snuggling with. She is machine washable to 40C. www.otoys.co.uk	Rosie the Bear £7.50, 12mths+ Every child should have their own teddy bear, and Rosie is a classic cute and cosy teddy, dressed up warm for winter in a stripy scarf and red cardigan. She has soft plush fur and suede paws, and is surface washable.  www.thepresentshop.co.uk