Barbie has introduced its first-ever doll on the autism spectrum, a move that has been praised by parents, activists and the autism community. The new doll, introduced this week by Mattel, aims to raise awareness and representation of children with autism through an iconic figure known worldwide.
For Precious Hill, a mother from Las Vegas, the moment her 5-year-old daughter, Mikko, saw her new Barbie doll was “almost magical.” The doll was carrying a pink fidget spinner that actually spins, large noise-canceling headphones and a tablet — items Mikko uses every day. Mikko doesn’t speak and communicates through a device that helps people with speech difficulties express themselves.
The doll's details are carefully crafted to reflect the real-life experiences of people on the autism spectrum. Barbie's gaze is slightly turned to the side, reflecting the fact that some autistic people avoid direct eye contact. Her outfit - a striped purple dress - is loose-fitting, with short sleeves and a lightweight material, in recognition of the sensitivity to touch that many people with autism experience.
The doll is part of the Barbie Fashionistas collection, which includes dolls with different skin tones, body types, hair textures and different health conditions, such as type 1 diabetes, Down syndrome and blindness.
Autism spectrum disorder is a range of neurodevelopmental changes that affect how individuals communicate, interact, and experience the world. It usually appears before age 3 and lasts throughout life. Although there is no cure, support and therapy can have a significant impact on quality of life.
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A blind Barbie doll is introduced for the first time
July 23, 11:15
