Why Mattel’s First-Ever Barbie With Autism Is Sparking Global Conversation on Inclusion?

Times Now

Toymaker Mattel has launched its first-ever Barbie with autism. The popular doll carries a pink fidget spinner that actually spins, wears pink noise-cancelling headphones to reduce sensory overload, and

holds a pink tablet that represents her augmentative and alternative communication, or AAC, device. Many children with autism, who are non-verbal, use an AAC device, which helps people who have speech or language problems to communicate.

What are the other autism features in the new Barbie?

Mattel’s new Barbie doll has a gaze that shifts slightly to the side, which reflects how some people with autism avoid direct eye contact. Also, a purple pinstripe dress she wears has been purposefully made flowy, loose-fitting, and short-sleeved – to show how those with autism would prefer to keep fabric from touching their skin as much as possible. The doll is also a part of the company’s Fashionistas collection – with other dolls that have a diverse range of skin tones, hair textures, body types, and health conditions, including type 1 diabetes, Down syndrome, and blindness.

Barbie represents autistic children

Mattel says since kids love Barbie, their doll needs to identify with their needs. It aims to represent the roughly one in 31 children who get diagnosed with autism by age 8 in the United States. While the launch has received praise from many parents and autism advocates, who believe the doll can help autistic children feel seen and validated, it is also expected to allow neurotypical children to learn about differences in a natural, non-judgmental way. However, the release has also sparked debate as a few critics argue that true inclusion must go beyond symbolic gestures and be supported by broader societal change.

What is autism?

Autism is a difference in how your child’s brain works that shapes how they interact with the world around them. Even though experts do not know why some people are autistic, and others aren’t, a few important things to note are:

Autism is not a disease

With autism, the goal is not to find a cure, but ways to help your child make the most of their strengths while managing any challenges they face.

Autistic people are neurodivergent

Those who are autistic have brains that are different from what is usually expected. They may excel more in certain areas and need more support in others compared to their neurotypical peers.

Autism is a spectrum

Autistic kids and adults show a big range of personality traits, strengths and challenges

Autism is misunderstood

There are many myths about autism across the world, which affect only those affected.

What is autism spectrum disorder?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the full medical name for autism. The DSM-5-TR defines ASD as a difference in brain functioning that affects how you communicate and interact with others. This brain difference also affects various aspects of your behavior, interests, or activities.

What are the signs and symptoms of autism?

According to experts, autism characteristics fall into two main groups:

Those with difficulties with social communication and interaction that affect how your child socializes
Restricted and repetitive behaviours, interests, or activities that affect how your child acts

You may notice a few things in your child about autism, which include :