Mattel has recently launched a new line of Barbie dolls with Down syndrome. The limited edition doll is a part of the 2023 Barbie Fashionistas line. The brand has created the doll to make its collection more inclusive for children. Lisa McKnight, Executive Vice President and Global Head of Barbie & Dolls, Mattel said in the press release:
“As the most diverse doll line on the market, Barbie plays an important role in a child’s early experiences, and we are dedicated to doing our part to counter social stigma through play.”
McKnight added that the company aims to “enable all children to see themselves in Barbie.” She said it encourages other children to play with dolls that look different, promoting understanding and empathy for each other. She added:
“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.”
The company worked with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) to make sure the doll could accurately represent a person with Down syndrome.
Mattel and NDSS worked together to create a Barbie with Down syndrome that has accurate features
National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) is a human rights organization that works closely with individuals with Down syndrome and their families. NDSS aids people in acquiring resources, establishing inclusive policy changes, engaging with communities, and more.
The organization guided Mattel in creating a true-to-life Barbie with Down syndrome. They were part of the entire creative process including the doll’s sculpt, clothing, accessories, and packaging.
The doll has a face and body structure that is similar to a woman with Down syndrome. The doll’s face is rounder when compared to other Barbies, and has slanted almond-shaped eyes, smaller ears, and a flat nasal bridge. Its body has a shorter frame with a longer torso. The doll’s palms have a single line, a characteristic often associated with those with Down syndrome 1.
Moreover, her clothes and accessories are also on the theme. The yellow and blue butterfly patterns on her dress are associated with Down syndrome awareness. Meanwhile, the three chevrons on her necklace symbolize the extra chromosome that causes Down syndrome in children.
The pendant represents “the lucky few” people who have someone with Down syndrome in their life. Another addition is the pink ankle foot orthotics (AFOs) that the doll is wearing. Some children with Down syndrome wear similar orthotics to support their feet and ankles.
NDSS President and CEO, Kandi Pickard shared her experience working with the toy brand by saying:
“It was an honor working with Barbie on the Barbie doll with Down syndrome.”
She added that for the first time, her community will be able to see and play with Barbies that look like them. Pickard shared:
“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.”
Mattel partnered with Ellie Goldstein, a British model with Down Syndrome to promote the doll on social media. Goldstein shared her feelings about the dolls and wrote:
“When I saw the doll I felt so emotional, and proud. It means a lot to me that children will be able to play with the doll and learn that everyone is different. I am proud that Barbie chose me to show the dolls to the world. Diversity is important as people need to see more people like me out there in the world and not be hidden away, Barbie will help make this happen.”
Mattel has created a wide variety of dolls in the past. The brand has introduced dolls with a variety of eye colors, hair colors and textures, and body types. They have also launched dolls with vitiligo, wheelchair, prosthetic limb, hearing aids, etc.
The Barbie doll with Down syndrome is available in both online and offline stores at $10.99.
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