Autism advocates celebrate release of 'magical' first-ever Barbie on the spectrum
KSL.com • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Mattel has launched the first Barbie doll with autism, featuring accessories like a spinning fidget spinner, noise-cancelling headphones, and a tablet representing an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device to reflect sensory and communication needs.
- The doll's design includes details such as a side gaze and loose clothing to authentically represent common traits and preferences among people with autism, aiming to increase representation and visibility.
- Mattel collaborated with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network to ensure the doll accurately and joyfully represents autistic individuals, highlighting the importance of authentic representation for the roughly 1 in 31 children diagnosed with autism in the U.S.
- Parents like Precious Hill, whose nonverbal daughter uses an AAC device, and others diagnosed later in
