US EditionAutism Advocates Celebrate Release of ‘Magical’ First-Ever Barbie on the Spectrum
Mattel developed the autistic Barbie with Autistic Self Advocacy Network input, donating 1,000+ dolls to pediatric hospitals to support representation and sensory needs.
- On Monday, Mattel unveiled its first Barbie designed to represent autism, launching on Mattel Shop and major stores including Target for about $11.87.
- Mattel spent more than 18 months working with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network , developing a doll designed to reflect some ways autistic individuals experience and navigate the world.
- The doll features articulated elbows and wrists to allow stimming-like gestures, a slightly averted eye gaze, and sensory-conscious accessories including a pink fidget spinner, noise-cancelling headphones, and a tablet with symbol-based AAC apps.
- Supporters praised the new Barbie, though some in the autistic community said representation is more complicated; Mattel will donate more than 1,000 dolls to pediatric hospitals in Washington, D.C. and Los Angeles.
- Part of the Barbie Fashionistas line, the new doll joins more than 175 looks and Mattel plans a wider release later this year at retailers including Walmart, noting it can't represent every autistic child.
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Autistic Barbie Is Here! Mattel Launches Its 1st Autism-Inclusive Doll in Landmark Move for Representation, Check Price and Availability | 👍 LatestLY
Mattel Inc. has officially introduced its first-ever Barbie doll with autism, marking a significant expansion of its inclusive "Fashionistas" line. Launched on January 12, 2026, the doll was developed over 18 months in close collaboration with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN). The release aims to provide an authentic representation for neurodivergent children and foster greater understanding among all consumers. 👍 Autistic Barbie Is He…
The company Mattel Inc. launched on Monday a new Barbie inspired by the Autistic Spectrum Disorder (TEA), as part of its strategy to strengthen representation and inclusion in its toy line.The model was incorporated into the Barbie Fashionistas collection, recognized for including dolls with different physical, sensory and body conditions.The doll developed for over 18 months in conjunction with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, a non-profit o…
Mattel brings out a special Barbie, which is to mirror the life of autistic people. Not only does this include a fidget spider.
Neurodivergence: The first autistic Barbie wears headphones and has flexible wrists and elbows. An American advocacy group for people…
It joins the collection that includes Barbie with Down syndrome, blind or type 1 diabetes.
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