Mattel Inc., the renowned toy creator, is launching their first autistic Barbie doll to promote inclusivity and representation among children. Collaborating with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), the doll aims to resonate with autistic children while also delivering a message of acceptance to the broader audience.
The unique features of the Barbie doll were carefully selected by advocates over an 18-month period. For instance, the doll’s eyes subtly shift to the side to reflect the tendency of some autistic individuals to avoid direct eye contact. Additionally, the doll has articulated elbows and wrists to acknowledge stimming behaviors commonly observed in autistic people, along with including a fidget spinner for sensory engagement.
During the development process, considerations were made regarding the doll’s attire. Opting for a loose-fitting outfit to accommodate sensory sensitivities, the doll also wears flat shoes to address challenges some autistic individuals face in spatial awareness. To enhance representation for non-speaking autistic individuals, the doll comes with a tablet and is designed as a woman of color to address under-identification within these demographics.
Deepa Singal from the Autism Alliance of Canada highlighted the issue of under-diagnosing girls with autism and emphasized the importance of representation in shifting societal understanding. By incorporating non-verbal communication representations, the Barbie doll aims to normalize diverse ways of expressing needs and emotions.
Mattel’s Fashionistas line, which encompasses various disabilities and conditions, now includes the autistic Barbie doll. This initiative aligns with Mattel’s commitment to reflecting diversity and inclusivity in their toy range. Pervez, a member of the development team, drew inspiration from his childhood experiences playing with dolls that represented diversity, emphasizing the role of toys in fostering empathy and understanding among children.
The introduction of the autistic Barbie doll signifies a step towards inclusivity in children’s entertainment, complementing previous initiatives such as Sesame Street’s character Julia. By celebrating diversity, the Barbie doll sends a powerful message of acceptance and belonging to children, reinforcing the idea that everyone deserves representation in playtime.
