Mattel launches first-ever autistic Barbie doll, championing inclusion and representation

IN A GROUNDBREAKING initiative to champion inclusivity and representation, Mattel, Inc. has unveiled its first-ever autistic Barbie doll, born from extensive collaboration with the autistic community. The doll not only adds to the diverse offerings of the Barbie Fashionistas collection but also highlights important aspects of how autistic children interact with the world around them.

Designed over 18 months in partnership with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), which advocates for the rights and representation of autistic individuals, the new Barbie doll is a reflection of authentic experiences. 

“Barbie has always strived to reflect the world kids see and the possibilities they imagine,” stated Jamie Cygielman, Global Head of Dolls at Mattel on the corporate.mattel.com website. 

“We’re proud to introduce our first autistic Barbie as part of that ongoing work.”

The dolls feature carefully chosen attributes and accessories aimed at mirroring common experiences of individuals on the autism spectrum. With elbow and wrist articulation, this unique Barbie can mimic movements like stimming and hand flapping - actions some autistic children use to process sensory information or express excitement. 

Also incorporated into the design is a thoughtfully designed eye gaze shifted slightly to the side, reflecting the preference for avoiding direct eye contact among some autistic individuals.

• Fidget Spinner: This doll comes equipped with a pink finger clip fidget spinner that actually spins, offering a sensory outlet that can reduce stress and improve focus.
• Noise-cancelling Headphones: Adorning her head, the pink headphones serve as a fashionable accessory while blocking out overwhelming background noise, thus reducing sensory overload.
• Tablet: A pink tablet featuring symbol-based Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) apps is included, serving as a communication tool that aids in everyday interactions.

The doll is dressed in a sensory-sensitive loose-fitting, purple pinstripe A-line dress designed for comfort, paired with purple shoes that offer stability and ease of movement. These intentional design choices exemplify Mattel's commitment to a more inclusive toy aisle.

Colin Killick, Executive Director of ASAN, expressed immense pride in being part of this creative process, emphasising the importance of authentic representation for young autistic people.

“This doll fully represents and celebrates the autistic community and we will keep pushing for more representation that supports our community in dreaming big and living proud,” he said on the website. 

Accompanying the launch, Barbie also collaborated with advocates from the autistic community, including mother-daughter duo Precious and Mikko Mirage, along with Madison Marilla, an autism advocate and creative entrepreneur, to celebrate their stories and experiences. 

Marilla shared her sentiments, stating “Dolls have always brought me comfort, stability, and joy. This autistic Barbie makes me feel truly seen and heard. I hope all the kids I’ve mentored feel the same.”

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