Barbie introduces first-ever autistic doll to expand inclusivity

Mattel announced a new autistic Barbie developed with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network after more than 18 months of collaboration, and the doll includes accessories such as a tablet with symbol-based AAC apps, noise‑cancelling headphones and a fidget spinner. The design reflects community guidance on features like a slightly averted gaze and a loose-fitting dress.

Mattel has introduced its first autistic Barbie, developed with guidance from the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN). The company said the doll was intended to represent common ways autistic people may experience, process and communicate about the world. The design work took more than 18 months in partnership with ASAN and is presented as part of Mattel’s broader effort to expand inclusion in its doll line. The announcement also referenced other inclusive Barbies the company has released. Key details: - Mattel worked for more than 18 months with ASAN, a nonprofit run by and for autistic people, to design the doll. - The doll is described as having a slightly averted eye gaze, a pink finger clip fidget spinner, noise‑cancelling headphones and a tablet that displays symbol‑based Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) apps. - The outfit is a loose‑fitting purple pinstripe A‑line dress with short sleeves and a flowy skirt, and the doll wears flat purple shoes to promote stability and reduce fabric‑to‑skin contact. - Mattel said these elements were chosen to reflect common experiences of autistic people, and Jamie Cygielman, global head of dolls, commented on the company’s aim to expand what inclusion looks like. - The autistic Barbie joins other Mattel dolls meant to celebrate diversity, including models with Down syndrome, vitiligo and a Type 1 diabetes Barbie that features a continuous glucose monitor and an insulin pump. Summary: Mattel presents the autistic Barbie as part of its ongoing inclusivity work and emphasized community guidance in the doll’s design. The announcement described specific sensory‑friendly accessories and clothing choices informed by autistic advocates. Availability and rollout details were not provided. Undetermined at this time.