health
January 12, 2026
US toy giant unveils first autistic Barbie doll
US toy maker Mattel has launched the first autistic Barbie doll as part of what it calls its devotion to diversity and inclusion
TL;DR
- Mattel has launched its first autistic Barbie doll.
- The doll was developed with guidance from the autistic community.
- Features include averted eye contact, bendable joints for stimming, and accessories like a fidget spinner and noise-canceling headphones.
- The doll's clothing is designed to be sensory-friendly.
- This is part of Barbie's broader effort to showcase diversity and inclusion.
- Previous additions to the Fashionistas line include dolls with disabilities such as type 1 diabetes, Down syndrome, and blindness.
- Mattel has expanded its range of dolls in recent years to include diverse skin tones, hair textures, body types, and characters with disabilities.
- Other toy manufacturers, like Lego, have also released inclusive toy lines.
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