Autistic Barbie doll released with noise-cancelling headphones

Mattel has released what it describes as the first autistic Barbie, developed with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, featuring noise‑cancelling headphones, a spinning fidget clip, a tablet with symbol-based AAC, and a shifted eye gaze.

Mattel has released what it describes as the first autistic Barbie doll and says the design was developed with guidance from the autistic community and the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN). The company presents the doll as part of a wider effort to broaden representation in its product range. The doll includes a new face sculpt and body articulation intended to reflect some ways autistic people may experience and communicate with the world. Mattel has previously introduced dolls representing other conditions such as type 1 diabetes, Down syndrome and blindness. Key details: - The design was developed in partnership with ASAN and with input from advocates including Ellie Middleton, an autistic and ADHD author and creator. - Accessories include pink noise-cancelling headphones, a pink finger clip fidget spinner that spins, and a tablet displaying symbol-based AAC (augmentative and alternative communication). - Design features include a slightly shifted eye gaze, elbow and wrist articulation to enable stimming gestures, a loose-fitting pinstripe A-line dress and flat purple shoes. - Mattel says the doll aims to represent some ways autistic people may process sensory information and communicate, and ASAN and the National Autistic Society are quoted about the importance of authentic representation. - The doll is reported as being available from retailers at an RRP of £13.99. Summary: The release is presented as the result of consultation with autistic advocates and as part of Mattel's broader move to increase diversity in its dolls. Responses cited in the report describe the doll as an authentic representation that could improve public understanding. Undetermined at this time.