Archive · 14 Jan 2026
Mattel Introduces First Autistic Barbie
Mattel, the company that makes Barbie dolls, has created a new Barbie that is on the autism spectrum.
This Barbie is part of a special collection called Barbie Fashionistas, which includes dolls that represent different kinds of people.
The new Autistic Barbie has features like special clothes that are comfortable, a tablet to help with communication, and a fidget spinner to help with sensory needs.
Mattel worked with a group called the Autistic Self-Advocacy Network to make sure the doll is accurate and respectful.
This is not the first time Mattel has made inclusive dolls.
In 2024, they also introduced a Blind Barbie with features like a cane and Braille packaging.
These dolls are made to help kids see themselves and others in a more inclusive way.
Mattel introduces the first Barbie on the autism spectrum as part of the Barbie Fashionistas collection.
The doll features sensory-friendly fashion, an AAC tablet, a fidget spinner, and noise-cancelling headphones.
Developed in collaboration with the Autistic Self-Advocacy Network (ASAN).
Other inclusive dolls in the Fashionistas line include a Ken with a prosthetic leg and a Barbie with hearing aids.
In 2024, Mattel introduced a Blind Barbie with features like a cane and Braille packaging.
- Who
- Mattel
- What
- Introduced the first Barbie on the autism spectrum
- When
- Not specified
- Where
- Not specified
- Why
- To increase diversity and inclusivity in the Barbie Fashionistas collection
- Company
- Mattel
- Collection
- Barbie Fashionistas
- Features
- Sensory-friendly fashion, AAC tools, fidget spinner, noise-cancelling headphones
- Collaboration
- Autistic Self-Advocacy Network (ASAN)
- Other Inclusive Dolls
- Ken with prosthetic leg, Barbie with hearing aids, dolls with vitiligo
- Year of Blind Barbie
- 2024
- Blind Barbie Features
- Upward and outward eye gaze, sunglasses, cane with marshmallow tip, textured fabrics, Braille packaging, elbow articulation