Mattel Adds Autistic Barbie To Doll Line

Mattel Inc. is adding a new doll to the Barbie line. Over the weekend, Mattel announced its first-ever autistic Barbie doll that was created with help from the autistic community.

Developed for more than 18 months in partnership with ASAN, a non-profit disability rights organization run by and for autistic people. The doll joins the Barbie Fashionistas collection, which features a diverse range of skin tones, hair textures, body types, and various medical conditions and disabilities.

“Barbie has always strived to reflect the world kids see and the possibilities they imagine, and we’re proud to introduce our first autistic Barbie as part of that ongoing work,” said Jamie Cygielman, Global Head of Dolls, Mattel. “The doll, designed with guidance from the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, helps to expand what inclusion looks like in the toy aisle and beyond because every child deserves to see themselves in Barbie." 

Mattel says the company worked with ASAN on key features including the doll having an eye gaze shifted slightly to the side to reflect how some members of the autistic community may avoid direct eye contact. She also includes pink noise-cancelling headphones, a pink tablet, and more.