Five-year-old Mikko felt a spark of joy when she saw her new Barbie. This Barbie had a fidget spinner and oversized headphones, just like Mikko’s. Her mother, Precious Hill, shared how special that moment was for them.
This isn’t just any Barbie. It’s the first Barbie with autism. She comes with a spinning fidget spinner, pink noise-cancelling headphones to help with sensory overload, and a tablet that represents an AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) device, similar to what Mikko uses to communicate.
“Seeing autism represented in Barbie is magical,” Hill said. Mikko, who is nonverbal, finds it easier to speak through her AAC device. Hill believes representation matters deeply. “It’s important for her to know she’s not alone,” she added.
The new Barbie is part of Mattel’s Fashionistas collection, which includes diverse dolls representing different skin tones, body types, and health conditions. Mattel collaborated with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network to create a doll that accurately reflects the autistic community.
This unique Barbie features small details that resonate with many on the spectrum. For example, she has a gaze that shifts slightly, reflecting how some individuals with autism may avoid direct eye contact. Her loose-fitting dress aligns with the preferences of some who prefer less fabric touching their skin.
Colin Killick, executive director of the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, described the significance: “It’s crucial for young autistic people to see authentic representations of themselves. This doll shows the tools that help them be independent.” Approximately 1 in 31 U.S. children are diagnosed with autism by age eight, according to the CDC.
Many women, like Precious Hill and Eileen Lamb, remain undiagnosed until later in life, often after becoming mothers. Lamb noted, “Autism can look different in girls. Barbie being a girl opens up important conversations about this.” She stated the new doll’s features, such as a fidget spinner, highlight vital tools for many on the autism spectrum.
Lamb stressed that while this doll is a positive step, it can’t fully represent the entire spectrum of autism. “Toys and representation matter. Children need to see themselves reflected in what they play with,” she said. It sends a powerful message: being different is something to celebrate.
This Barbie is not just a toy; it’s a step towards understanding, acceptance, and representation for the millions of kids with autism.
