Autistic Barbie sparks online debate

Toy maker Mattel has unveiled its first-ever autistic Barbie doll, sparking conversation about representation and inclusion when it comes to children's toys.

The new doll forms part of the Barbie Fashionistas range, which aims to celebrate diversity and self-expression.

"They're very on point as a brand to have always jumped on the bandwagon of whatever's in the zeitgeist. They were certainly one of the first companies to make dolls of colour, which was very cool," says Primedia Digital Content Editor Barbara Friedman.

Designed in partnership with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, the new Barbie includes features intended to represent the lived experiences of autistic children.

She comes equipped with various accessories, including noise cancelling headphones, a working fidget spinner and an augmentative and alternative communication tablet.

"The articles [say] the doll's eyes gaze slightly to one side, reflecting how some autistic people avoid direct eye contact.

"I know there are people rolling their eyes and saying, 'Oh, the wokey wokey wokes'.

But it's a good thing to give your child something that they can feel, 'I'm not an outsider. I'm not othered'," says Friedman.

Mattel says the doll’s clothing and accessories were carefully considered, with a 'relaxed-fit outfit, flat shoes and flexible joints that allow for a wider range of movement during play'.

The company says these details help children better understand different ways people interact with the world.

To listen to Friedman in conversation with CapeTalk's Clarence Ford, use the audio player below: