The doll has several additions that align with the experience of autistic people.
Mattel has released a new Barbie doll that serves a unique purpose, representing those on the autism spectrum.
The first autistic Barbie will join Mattel’s line of Fashionista dolls that promote diversity and inclusion in our world. The line includes several Barbies, including some with Down syndrome or even blind dolls, to help every doll lover feel empowered through toys.
By: ABC NewsMattel worked with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network for more than 18 months to develop the doll. The final product contained several additions aligned with the needs of those diagnosed with autism.
The doll itself has an articulated elbow and wrist, allowing for cooing, waving, and other gestures often used by members of the autism community to express themselves or their feelings. Puppeteers also included eye gaze. This addition allows the doll to avoid eye contact, another repetitive habit among many autistic people.
And of course, no Barbie feels complete without her accessories, and the same goes for her autistic version. However, there’s more to this doll than a purse and some high heels. Instead, the doll comes with an all-pink fidget spinner, noise-canceling headphones and a tablet for sensory overload. This Barbie’s outfit was also thoughtfully designed. It’s a flowy, purple A-line dress that allows for less fabric-to-skin contact, paired with flat-soled shoes for steady movement.
With these enhanced details, the doll aims to authentically represent the experiences of autistic people. In her ad, Barbie joined forces with vocal members of the autism community. These advocates were able to get a first-hand look at this transformative doll for autistic youth.
“Barbie has always strived to reflect the world children see and the possibilities they imagine, and we’re proud to introduce our first autistic Barbie as part of that ongoing work,” said Jamie Sigilman, Global Head of Dolls, Mattel. press release.
“Designed with the guidance of the Autistic Self-Advocacy Network, the doll helps expand what inclusion looks like in the toy aisle and beyond, because every child deserves to see themselves in Barbie.”
To further celebrate the launch of this innovative toy, Barbie will donate 1,000 of these specialized dolls to hospitals serving children with autism. This toy will also help children of color, particularly black children. By: According to Autism Speaks, black children in the United States have the third highest rate of autism among other racial groups. Now enhanced by Barbie, this awareness will comfort children who want to experience what they see all aspects of life.
For those who want to buy a doll for the variously developed people in their lives, dolls are available At multiple Mattel retail locations.
