Toy company Mattel has debuted its first Barbie doll representing a person with Down syndrome.
This is part of Mattel’s initiative to make the Barbie franchise more inclusive and allow more children to see themselves reflected in the toy.
Currently, Barbie is the most diverse doll on the market with over 175 looks being offered.
“Our goal is to enable all children to see themselves in Barbie, while also encouraging children to play with dolls who do not look like themselves,” Executive Vice President and Global Head of Barbie & Dolls of Mattel, Lisa McKnight, said in a statement Tuesday.
“Doll play outside of a child’s own lived experience can teach understanding and build a greater sense of empathy, leading to a more accepting world. We are proud to introduce a Barbie doll with Down syndrome to better reflect the world around us and further our commitment to celebrating inclusion through play,” she added.
Mattel says it worked closely with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) to ensure the doll was accurately made. NDSS shadowed the entire design process from the doll’s sculpt, clothing and accessories to packaging.
For the doll’s sculpt, the company added a shorter frame and a longer torso for the body, as well as a rounder shape, smaller ears, a flat nasal bridge, and almond shaped eyes for the face.
When it comes to the doll’s fashion, its sleeved dress pattern has symbols and colours associated with Down syndrome awareness. The doll also has a pink pendant necklace with three upward chevrons representing the three copies of the 21st chromosome.
Lastly, the toy maker included pink ankle foot orthotics to symbolize the feet support needed for children with Down syndrome.
“It was an honor working with Barbie on the Barbie doll with Down syndrome,” NDSS President and CEO, Kandi Pickard, said.
“This means so much for our community, who for the first time, can play with a Barbie doll that looks like them. This Barbie serves as a reminder that we should never underestimate the power of representation. It is a huge step forward for inclusion and a moment that we are celebrating,” Pickard added.
The Barbie doll with Down syndrome is available in limited quantities now online and is set to be in store this summer and fall at major retailers.
