Mattel launches the first autistic Barbie

Mattel presented its premiere Autistic Barbie created with the consultancy of autistic community to offer a more faithful representation of some ways in which the people on the spectrum they can experience, process and communicate the world around them. The project was developed over 18 months in partnership with ASAN (Autistic Self Advocacy Network)organization for rights of autistic people led by members of the same community. The doll enters the line Barbie Fashionistas the collection with which the brand has expanded over the years variety of models introducing a wider range of skin tones, hair, body types and hips medical conditions and disabilities. “Every child deserves to be able to see themselves in Barbie,” said Jamie Cygielman, Global Head of Dolls at Mattel, noting that the design was defined with input from ASAN.

On the front of the designthe doll intact thoughtful details to recall some typical experiences: elbow and wrist joints to facilitate hand movements e repetitive gesturese slightly off-center look to evoke the tendency, in some cases, to avoid the direct eye contact. The clothing is designed in a “sensory-friendly“: and loose dress which reduces tissue-skin contact e shoes with flat solesorientate a stability and comfort.

Accessories included in the package

There are also in the package accessories related to sensory regulation and to communicationincluding a fidget spinner, noise canceling headphones and a tablet which refers to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) app.

The impact of the doll according to ASAN

Per ASANthe doll is a passage of important representation which will have an impact especially for the younger. Executive Director Colin Killick spoke of an image “authentic and joyful” from the autistic community e di tools that help autonomy.

Collaborations and donations for the launch

On the occasion of launch, Barbie collaborates with some figures active inadvocacyincluding mother-daughter duo Precious and Mikko Mirage, activist Madison Marilla and designer and visual artist Aarushi Pratap, with a video published on the channel Mattel’s YouTube. The company also announced the donation beyond 1,000 autistic Barbies a US pediatric hospitals con specialized services for children.