Toys That Develop Empathy
Our Top 5 Picks
Little Vets on a Mission
My World My Play Vet Set with Puppy and Accessories is a delightful introduction to the world of veterinary care for children aged 3 and up. This engaging play set fosters empathy and responsibility as little ones examine and treat their plush puppy patient, sharpening their fine motor skills and imaginative play. It not only provides a fun, hands-on experience but also encourages future caregivers to develop essential problem-solving skills while organizing their tools neatly in the vet crate. 3+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Little Vets on a Mission features a plush puppy and accessories that spark compassion while allowing kids to practice their veterinary skills in a playful, hands-on way.
Discover Farm Adventures with Schleich Figurines!
Schleich Farm World - 7 PC Farm Animal Playset brings the magic of the barnyard right into your child's playroom! As fellow parents, we know how vital imaginative play is for our little ones, and this engaging set offers a chance to explore animal friendships, learn about farm life, and spark curiosity about nature. Each figure is crafted with delightful realism, encouraging not just storytelling but also conversations about responsibility and care for animals. 3+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Discover Farm Adventures with Schleich Figurines! includes 7 beautifully crafted animals, sparking endless stories about farm life while nurturing the importance of caring for our furry friends.
SPARK & WOW Emotional Expression Magnets
The SPARK & WOW Wooden Magnets set is a delightful way to introduce young children to the world of emotions, featuring 20 colorful magnets with different facial expressions. Designed for kids aged 2 and up, this engaging tool promotes social-emotional learning, helping little ones identify and express feelings like joy, anger, and sadness. As educators and parents, we know the importance of emotional intelligence, and these durable, kid-friendly magnets make it easy to start conversations and create emotive scenes during playtime. 2+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
SPARK & WOW Emotional Expression Magnets include 20 colorful magnets that transform feelings into fun, making emotional conversations as engaging as a game of colorful mix-and-match.
Mermaid Adventures: Ocean Care Fun
Playmobil Mermaid with Dolphins Secrets of the Depths invites our little explorers to dive into an enchanting underwater world! In this set, children will enjoy not just imaginative play but also learn empathy and responsibility as they care for the dolphin mother and her calf. With accessories like sparkling corals and decorative shells, kids can enhance their fine motor skills while engaging in a rich narrative of ocean life. 4+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Mermaid Adventures: Ocean Care Fun includes adorable dolphins and accessories that spark curiosity about marine life while subtly teaching kids the importance of caring for our oceans.
Mermaid Adventure: Care for Marine Animals
Playmobil Mermaid Animal Care Mysterious Underwater World invites our little explorers into a vibrant aquatic realm where they can foster a love for marine life. As they nurture seahorses, turtles, and a host of other enchanting creatures, children develop empathy, fine motor skills, and imaginative play. With 114 pieces including figures and a bevy of accessories designed for their little hands, kids will engage in hands-on learning that enhances their problem-solving abilities while having boundless fun. 4+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Mermaid Adventure: Care for Marine Animals includes 114 colorful pieces that transform playtime into a journey of compassion for marine life, sparking vital conversations about ocean conservation.
Boo the Learning Buddy
GUND Boo, The World’s Cutest Dog Varsity Jacket Plush Pomeranian Stuffed Animal, engages children in a relational play environment perfect for social-emotional learning. This cuddly companion helps little ones practice sharing, empathy, and imaginative storytelling, all while boosting their language skills as they narrate stories with Boo by their side. Designed for ages 1 and up, Boo encourages creativity through playtime, making him an adorable addition to any educational toolkit. 1+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Boo the Learning Buddy is a cuddly companion that turns storytelling into a delightful adventure, helping kids nurture empathy and creativity in a playful way.
Axolotl Adventure: Learning Through Play
The Rhode Island Novelty 6" Squishy-Ishies Axolotl Plush is a delightful combination of fun and education for young minds. This adorable plush not only sparks joy but also fosters a love for biology and nature, helping children develop empathy and communication skills as they engage in imaginative play and storytelling. With its squishy texture, this axolotl inspires sensory exploration, making it an ideal companion for early learning adventures. 3+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Axolotl Adventure is a squishy 6-inch plush that encourages storytelling and empathy, turning every play session into a delightful exploration of biology and nature.
3-in-1 Cotton Candy Doll Car Seat
The 509 Crew: Cotton Candy Pink 3-in-1 Doll Car Seat is more than just a stylish accessory for your child's dolls—it's a gateway to imaginative play and learning! By using this multifunctional car seat, kids can develop their nurturing skills as they care for their favorite dolls or stuffed animals. Whether transporting them like a real parent, feeding them, or letting them take cozy naps, your little ones will be engaging in role-playing that fosters empathy and responsibility. 3+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
3-in-1 Cotton Candy Doll Car Seat features an adjustable safety harness, making it perfect for little ones to transport their dolls while learning the importance of care and responsibility.
Kid-Approved Doll Travel System Fun
509 Crew: Cotton Candy Pink: Doll Travel System is the perfect way to spark imaginative play in our little ones! Not only does it encourage creativity and storytelling, but it also helps develop essential skills like coordination and responsibility as kids care for their favorite dolls. The multifunctional car seat adds an extra layer of play, allowing for pretend feeding and safe transport, promoting empathy and nurturing behaviors. 3+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Kid-Approved Doll Travel System Fun features a multifunctional car seat, encouraging kids to explore creativity while learning vital skills like care and responsibility in their own pretend adventures.
Adventure Awaits with Schleich Horse Club!
Schleich Horse Club - 25 PC Lisa and Storm Horse Toy Stall Playset with Accessories is a fantastic gateway into the world of imaginative play. With realistic figures and customizable features, kids can enhance their storytelling and creativity while developing fine motor skills as they assemble stalls and gear. This playset not only fuels a passion for animals but also teaches responsibility and empathy as they care for Lisa and Storm. 5+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Adventure Awaits with Schleich Horse Club! features 25 realistic pieces that transform playtime into a vibrant equestrian world, helping kids cultivate creativity and empathy while they care for their new friends.
Mini Calin Bunnies: Nurturing Playtime Partner
Corolle Mini Calin Bunnies Baby Doll is the perfect companion for your little ones as they embark on imaginative adventures! Designed for children aged 18 months and up, this delightful 8-inch soft body doll is not only cuddly but also encourages nurturing role play, which is essential for emotional development. With its reassuring expression, delicate vanilla scent, and lightweight, carry-anywhere design, this doll becomes a cherished first partner in play. 18 months and up
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Mini Calin Bunnies, with its soft body and delicate vanilla scent, encourages nurturing play and emotional growth, making every adventure feel like a warm hug.
Unleash Creativity with Truly Me Doll!
American Girl Truly Me 18-inch Doll #125 is the perfect friend for your little one to explore creativity and self-expression! With its lifelike features, including hazel eyes and curly blonde hair, this doll encourages imaginative play and storytelling. Dressing her in mix-and-match outfits fosters decision-making skills and boosts confidence as kids curate their unique styles. 6+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Unleash Creativity with Truly Me Doll! features lifelike features that inspire kids to explore storytelling and develop their own unique style, boosting confidence along the way.
Dizzy's Helicopter Hospital Adventure
The Super Wings Dizzy Rescue Helicopter Hospital Playset invites young imaginations to take flight! This engaging set encourages role-play as kids transform Dizzy from helicopter to hospital mode, fostering empathy and nurturing skills while diving into the exciting world of medicine and animal care. With over 20 accessories, children can explore various scenarios, develop problem-solving abilities, and learn about health and teamwork in a fun and interactive way. 3-7 years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Dizzy's Helicopter Hospital Adventure features over 20 accessories that transform play into a hands-on lesson in caring for others, combining fun with valuable life skills.
Barbie Polly Pocket Dreamhouse Adventure
The Barbie Polly Pocket Dreamhouse Compact is a delightful playset that brings the magic of Barbie-land to life in a charming micro format. This engaging compact not only fosters imaginative storytelling but also encourages creativity, social skills, and emotional development as children create scenarios with Barbie, Brooklyn, and their friend. With features like a wheelchair-accessible elevator and a fun slide, it inspires inclusivity while teaching the importance of empathy and friendship through play. 4-10 years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Barbie Polly Pocket Dreamhouse Adventure features a wheelchair-accessible elevator, cleverly teaching inclusivity and empathy while kids dive into imaginative play with their favorite characters.
Barbie Toy Stable Playset Adventure
Barbie Toy Stable Playset with Fashion Doll, Small Pony & 10+ Accessories sparks imagination and teaches responsibility in the most delightful way! We adore how this playset allows our little ones to step into the role of caregivers, nurturing their very own toy pony alongside the charming Renee doll. With areas for feeding, grooming, and even a cozy stable, kids practice essential motor skills and enhance their storytelling abilities. 3+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Barbie Toy Stable Playset Adventure includes a charming Renee doll and accessories, transforming playtime into a nurturing experience that fosters creativity and care for animals.
Inclusive Fashion Fun with Barbie
Barbie Fashionistas Doll #228 is a groundbreaking addition to the Barbie line, thoughtfully created to represent individuals who are blind or have low vision. This doll not only encourages imaginative play and storytelling but also promotes empathy, inclusivity, and an understanding of diverse abilities among children. With her stylish attire and engaging accessories, she serves as a wonderful tool for parents and educators to foster conversations about acceptance and friendship in our colorful world. 3+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Inclusive Fashion Fun with Barbie features a thoughtfully created doll for individuals who are blind, promoting rich conversations about acceptance and friendship while encouraging imaginative play.
Wicked Nessarose Doll: Playful Adventures Await!
Mattel Universal Wicked Nessarose Fashion Doll & Accessories opens a magical gateway to the enchanting land of Oz! As parents and educators, we love how this doll not only sparks creativity and imagination but also encourages storytelling skills and social interactions among kids. With her poseable features and stunning wheelchair, children can express themselves while exploring themes of sisterhood and friendship, making it an ideal toy for role-playing and sharing narratives. 5-10 years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Wicked Nessarose Doll comes with poseable features and a stunning wheelchair, inspiring kids to craft their own magical tales while learning about sisterhood and friendship.
Huggable Learning with Squishmallows
The Squishmallows Original 8-Inch Margie Pumpkin in Pink Devil Costume is not just a cuddly companion; it’s a fun tool for emotional development and imaginative play! As children engage with Margie, they practice empathy, learn about emotions, and enhance their storytelling skills through creative play. This ultra-soft plush promotes comfort and security while encouraging little ones to explore their feelings during the Halloween season. 3+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Huggable Learning with Squishmallows features ultra-soft plush comfort, making it a perfect companion for kids to explore their feelings and enhance creativity during Halloween.
Herman the Celestial Snake Buddy
Squishmallows Original 8-Inch Herman Navy Blue Snake with Celestial Belly is not just a plush toy; it's a delightful partner for social skill development and emotional support! With his charming backstory as a customer service representative, Herman encourages kids to engage in imaginative role-play while nurturing empathy and communication skills. A wonderful addition to any learning environment, he inspires curiosity and allows children to explore themes of friendship and teamwork. 3+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Herman the Celestial Snake Buddy, with his adorable 8-inch size, inspires kids to explore friendship while developing communication skills in the most delightful way.
Squishy Holiday Adventures Await!
The Squishmallows Original 5-Inch Holiday 4-Pack brings joy and learning together in a delightful way. Each plush buddy not only sparks imaginative play through their unique stories—like Ethel the silent film actress and Ricardo with his pet rock shop—but also enhances social-emotional skills as children create their narratives and share experiences. These soft companions encourage children to express their feelings and develop empathy while engaging in tactile and sensory experiences. 3+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Squishy Holiday Adventures Await! includes four delightful plush buddies that make storytelling feel magical, helping kids connect with their feelings and each other in a cozy, cuddly way.
Cuddle Up With Greer the Grasshopper!
The Squishmallows Original 5-Inch Greer Yellow Grasshopper is more than just a soft and cuddly friend; he’s an engaging companion that ignites creativity and imagination! With his unique personality as a newscaster who loves to sing, Greer inspires storytelling, role-play, and creative expression in kids. Perfect for cuddles during nap time or as a comforting buddy while diving into reading, this vibrant plush promotes emotional development and social skills—teaching children empathy and the art of sharing. 3+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Cuddle Up With Greer the Grasshopper! features a vibrant plush that not only provides comfort but also inspires kids to dive into imaginative storytelling and role-play.
Snuggly Adventures with Red Dragon
The Snuggie Buggies Red Dragon Stuffed Animal is a delightful plush companion that brings both comfort and imaginative play to kids aged 3 and up. This ultra-soft dragon encourages storytelling, creativity, and empathy as children engage in role-playing adventures with their new friend. An ideal gift for any occasion, this adorable dragon not only comforts but also supports emotional development and social skills during playtime. 3+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
Snuggly Adventures with Red Dragon features an ultra-soft plush design that sparks storytelling adventures, making it a cozy companion for nurturing creativity and emotional growth during playtime.
JT Bigfoot: Your Child's Soft Companion
The Squishmallows Original 5-Inch JT Dark Teal Bigfoot is not just an adorable plush toy; it’s a unique friend that encourages imaginative play and social-emotional development. With his charming personality and love for grocery store adventures, JT inspires storytelling and emotional connection, making him a perfect companion for kids. Parents will appreciate how this super soft plush helps in teaching essential skills like empathy, sharing, and creativity—all wrapped up in a cozy hug. 3+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
JT Bigfoot is a delightful 5-inch plush that inspires storytelling and emotional connections, making it a cozy companion for kids' imaginative adventures.
My Melody HugMees: Snuggle & Learn
My Melody HugMees is not just a plush toy; it’s a gateway to nurturing skills in social-emotional development. With those extended arms, this adorable 10-inch plush invites children into a world where hugs and empathy lead the way. We love how its super soft fabric encourages imaginative play and comfort during quiet moments. 3+ years
Develops skills:
Why we love it:
My Melody HugMees features extended arms that invite kids into a world of hugs, fostering comfort and essential social skills in a cuddly companion.