16 January, 2026

This week, Mattel introduced its first autistic Barbie, as part of its effort to broaden representation across the brand. The new doll joins the Fashionistas range, which aims to help children see themselves, their experiences and the world around them in their toys. The launch follows the release of Barbie with Type 1 Diabetes last year, reinforcing a consistent push toward greater inclusivity. 

Developed in collaboration with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, the doll incorporates design elements informed by autistic people and their lived experiences. The creation process considered the different experiences of autism that people have, mindful that each individual experience is different. The doll’s eyes look slightly to the side to avoid direct eye contact, and she’s accessorised with noise‑reducing headphones and a fidget spinner, reflective of some of the ways autistic individuals might reduce sensory overload. She also wears a loose-fitting dress and flat shoes for comfort and practicality and holds a tablet with symbol‑based communication buttons. 

Since 2019, Mattel has made notable steps to expand the diversity of the Barbie range, including models with hearing aids, prosthetics, visual impairments and mobility aids. As Jamie Cygielman, Mattel CEO explains “Barbie has always strived to reflect the world kids see and the possibilities they imagine”, and this newest doll resembles the latest push forward. 

Perhaps inevitably, there has been some pushback. Critics argue that the doll could perpetuate stereotypes, misses the fact the autism is often not something you can see, and fails to capture the diversity of the traits associated with autism. 

But alongside this comes hope that this new doll will help highlight the experiences of children with autism, especially girls, who are three times less likely to be diagnosed than boys, and that in doing so will offer a message to children that their differences, whatever they are, are valid and should be embraced.  

By Rosie Serlin