In a move to promote inclusivity in Barbie toys, Mattel Inc. is set to launch its first-ever Barbie doll representing autism. The development of this doll was a collaborative effort with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN). Noor Pervez, the community engagement manager at ASAN, highlighted the doll’s significance in providing representation for autistic children and delivering a message of acceptance to non-autistic individuals.
During the 18-month development process, advocates carefully selected unique features for the doll. For instance, the Barbie’s eyes are designed to slightly shift to the side to reflect the tendency of some autistic individuals to avoid direct eye contact. Additionally, the doll features movable elbows and wrists to acknowledge common gestures like hand flapping, known as stimming, that autistic people use for sensory processing and expressing excitement. The doll also includes a fidget spinner for sensory reasons.
The development team deliberated on whether to dress the doll in tight or loose-fitting clothing. They opted for a loose garment to cater to the sensitivities of some autistic individuals to fabric seams, along with flat shoes to address difficulties in spatial awareness. The doll also comes with a tablet to represent non-speaking autistic individuals and is designed as a woman of color to address under-representation in the autistic community.
Deepa Singal, the scientific director of the Autism Alliance of Canada, emphasized the importance of broader representation in combating the under-diagnosis of autism in girls. She noted that increased representation, such as through this Barbie doll, can help shift societal understanding and awareness of autism, especially in girls.
The inclusion of a non-speaking autistic representation in the doll aims to normalize diverse ways of communication and highlight the importance of accommodating different communication styles. This initiative aligns with a broader trend in children’s entertainment towards inclusivity, as seen with characters like Julia in Sesame Street and other diverse toy offerings in the market.
Mattel’s new autistic Barbie is part of the Fashionistas line, which features dolls representing various disabilities and diverse characteristics. This inclusive range aims to reflect the diversity of the world and foster empathy and understanding among children. Jamie Cygielman, Mattel’s global head of dolls, expressed pride in introducing the first autistic Barbie as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to diversity and representation.
Noor Pervez, reflecting on his involvement in the project, shared how his early experience playing with Mattel’s Becky doll, who used a wheelchair, helped shape his understanding of inclusivity. He sees the autistic Barbie as a way for children to learn empathy and acceptance towards autistic individuals, emphasizing the importance of recognizing autistic people as integral members of society.
