Summer is the perfect time for kids to slow down, get creative, and rediscover the joy of imaginative play. While summer schedules can fill up quickly with activities and adventures, I love having toys in our home that encourage my kids to unplug, use their creativity, and enjoy independent play.

One type of toy that has always stood the test of time in our house is the classic doll. Dolls encourage storytelling, imagination, and nurturing play — and they allow children to create an entire world that is uniquely their own.

This summer, we’re excited to introduce our readers to two new collections from a name families have trusted for generations: Madame Alexander. We had the opportunity to check out the Poshy Baby™ Fashion Dolls and the Favorite Furiends™ Fashion Dolls, and they are such fun additions to summer playtime.

Poshy Baby™: Stylish Dolls with Big Imaginations

The Poshy Baby™ Fashion Dolls are designed for little ones who love fashion, friendship, and pretend play. These 12-inch dolls each have their own unique look and personality, making them fun for children to collect, style, and create stories around.

From imaginative adventures to pretend play at home, Poshy Baby dolls give kids the freedom to decide who their doll is and what adventures they will share together. One day they might be headed to a pretend birthday party, and the next they might be exploring an imaginary world created completely by your child.

I love toys that don’t come with a set script. The best imaginative toys are the ones where kids get to take the lead — and dolls are perfect for that. My daughter has been dressing and undressing this sweet doll for the past week, and absolutely loves her. I have a feeling that this sweet girl will wind up with us on vacation this summer. Can I just say how adorable the doll tumbler is? It's such a realistic touch!

Favorite Furiends™ Fashion Dolls: A New Friend for Every Adventure

The Favorite Furiends™ Fashion Dolls are 18-inch dolls that are perfect for kids who love styling hair, creating outfits, and building a special bond with their toys.

Each doll features a unique personality, fashionable clothing, and beautiful details that make it feel like a true companion. Kids can brush their doll’s hair, create new looks, host pretend play dates, or dream up endless adventures.

There is something so special about watching a child care for a doll and create stories around them. Whether they are playing “mom,” “teacher,” “best friend,” or fashion designer, dolls provide opportunities for creativity, confidence-building, and connection.

This doll is the perfect size to bring along in the car on all of our summertime adventures! Plus, it's the perfect size to play with in doll houses, making it fit right in with our existing toys.

Why We Love Independent Play During Summer

As a mom, I love finding toys that encourage my kids to use their imagination while also giving them space to play independently. Summer break is wonderful, but those long afternoons at home can sometimes leave kids searching for something to do.

Open-ended toys like dolls help children:

• Build creativity through pretend play

• Practice storytelling and communication skills

• Develop empathy and nurturing skills

• Create their own adventures without needing a screen

Sometimes the sweetest childhood memories come from simple moments — sitting on the floor, brushing a doll’s hair, creating a pretend story, and letting imagination lead the way.

Want them? Get them!

Ready to add a new friend to your child’s summer adventures?

The Madame Alexander Poshy Baby™ Fashion Dolls are available for purchase through Madame Alexander and retail partners. Pricing is approximately $57.95 per doll, depending on the style and current promotions.

The Madame Alexander Favorite Furiends™ Fashion Dolls are also available through Madame Alexander and select retailers. Pricing is approximately $28.95 per doll, depending on the doll style and availability.

Madame Alexander dolls make wonderful gifts for birthdays, special occasions, or simply a fun summer surprise to encourage creative, independent play.

Looking for a way to inspire more imagination this summer? Head over to Madame Alexander and find the doll that will become your child’s next favorite friend. Then tell us — would your child choose Poshy Baby™ or a Favorite Friends™ Fashion Doll?