Mattel Inc introduced an autistic Barbie earlier this month as the newest member of its line intended to celebrate diversity, joining a collection that already includes Barbies with Down syndrome, a blind Barbie, a Barbie and a Ken with vitiligo, and other models the toymaker added to make its fashion dolls more inclusive.Mattel said it developed the autistic doll over more than 18 months in partnership with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, a nonprofit organisation that advocates for the rights and bette ...

Core Insights - Mattel, Inc. has introduced its first-ever autistic Barbie doll, developed with input from the autistic community to better represent their experiences and communication styles [1] Group 1: Product Development - The autistic Barbie doll was developed over a period of more than 18 months [1] - The creation involved collaboration with ASAN, a non-profit organization that advocates for autistic individuals [1] Group 2: Representation and Inclusion - This new doll aims to provide representation for more children, allowing them to see themselves reflected in the Barbie brand [1]