Mattel, through Barbie, has announced the launch of the first Barbie doll with autism. This initiative, developed over 18 months, aims to expand children's representation through play and more faithfully reflect the diversity of human experiences from childhood. The doll was designed in collaboration with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), a non-profit organization led by and for people with autism, to ensure an informed, respectful, and authentic representation.
The development of the autism-focused Barbie was guided by the direct input of individuals on the spectrum, incorporating elements that reflect diverse forms of interaction, self-regulation, and communication. Key features include articulated elbows and wrists for movements associated with sensory self-regulation; a slightly diverted gaze, reflecting the diversity in eye contact; and functional accessories like noise-canceling headphones, a fidget spinner, and a tablet with Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) apps.
The doll wears a loose-fitting purple dress and flat shoes to minimize skin contact and provide comfort and stability. This design is part of the Barbie Fashionistas line, which already includes dolls representing diabetes type 1, Down syndrome, and blindness. For the launch, Mattel collaborated with autism advocates to create a video documenting their personal experiences and the importance of seeing oneself represented in toys.
Research conducted by Barbie in partnership with Cardiff University since 2020 shows that playing with dolls activates brain regions associated with empathy, social processing, and interpersonal skills in both neurotypical children and those with neurodivergent traits. As part of the launch, Mattel will donate over 1,000 of these dolls to pediatric hospitals, with availability in Mexico starting in July at an approximate price of 329 pesos.
