Mattel has launched its first-ever autistic Barbie doll, representing the experiences autistic people may feel and inviting more children to reflect on themselves through the doll’s image. 

In partnership with Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), a non-profit organization for autistic individuals, the doll joins the Barbie Fashionistas lineup featuring various skin tones, hair textures, body types, and medical conditions and disabilities, including Mattel’s first Barbie doll with type 1 diabetes.

“The doll, designed with guidance from the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, helps to expand what inclusion looks like in the toy aisle and beyond because every child deserves to see themselves in Barbie,” said Jamie Cygielman, global head of dolls at Mattel.

To reflect the experiences of some individuals with authentic doll features, the Barbie design team incorporated intentional design elements, including body features and accessories such as elbow and wrist articulation, eye gaze, a fidget spinner, headphones, and a tablet.

“As proud members of the autistic community, our ASAN team was thrilled to help create the first-ever autistic Barbie doll. It is so important for young autistic people to see authentic, joyful representations of themselves, and that’s exactly what this doll is,” said Colin Killick, executive director of ASAN.

“ Partnering with Barbie allowed us to share insights and guidance throughout the design process to ensure the doll fully represents and celebrates the autistic community, including the tools that help us be independent.”

Mattel teamed with advocates in the autistic community, including mother-daughter duo Precious and Mikko Mirage and autism advocate and creative entrepreneur Madison Marilla, to create the doll, as part of its effort to help children better understand the world around them.