Mattel, Inc. has announced the addition of a Barbie doll with Down syndrome to its line, allowing even more children to see themselves in Barbie and have the dolls reflect the world around them. The new doll aims to inspire children to tell more stories through play.
Lisa McKnight, Executive Vice President and Global Head of Barbie & Dolls at Mattel, emphasizes the importance of diversity in early experiences and the role of Barbie in countering social stigma. The goal is to enable all children to see themselves in Barbie while also encouraging them to play with dolls that don't look like them, fostering empathy and understanding.
To create an accurate representation of a person with Down syndrome, Barbie collaborated closely with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), which empowers individuals with Down syndrome and their families by providing resources, driving policy change, and engaging with local communities. NDSS's guidance informed the design process, including the doll's sculpt, clothing, accessories, and packaging.
The new doll features a face and body sculpt more illustrative of women with Down syndrome, along with carefully chosen fashion and accessories inspired by Down syndrome awareness symbols and colors. The doll also wears pink ankle-foot orthotics (AFOs), which some children with Down syndrome use for support.
Barbie, the most inclusive doll line on the market, plays a crucial role in shaping children's early experiences and fostering a sense of inclusivity. The 2023 Fashionistas lineup, including the Barbie doll with Down syndrome, is available for purchase from major retailers for $10.99 USD.
Inclusive Barbie Dolls
Barbie® Introduces Its First Doll with Down Syndrome
Trend Themes
1. Inclusive Dolls - The creation of inclusive dolls that represent a diverse range of identities and abilities presents new opportunities for toy companies to promote empathy and understanding among children.
2. Collaboration with Advocacy Groups - Collaboration with advocacy groups such as the National Down Syndrome Society provides toy companies with the opportunity to ensure accurate representation and sensitivity to the needs of traditionally underrepresented groups in their product lines.
3. Empathy-focused Play - Toy companies can capitalize on the demand for toys that foster empathy and understanding among children by creating products that encourage imaginative play and storytelling that promote social awareness.
Industry Implications
1. Toy Manufacturing - Toy manufacturers can promote inclusivity, diversity, and empathy in their products by creating lines of dolls and toys that represent individuals with disabilities, people of color, and members of the LGBTQ community.
2. Advocacy and Support Organizations - Advocacy groups, such as the National Down Syndrome Society, can play a key role in providing guidance and insights for toy manufacturers and promoting the importance of accurate representation in toy design.
3. Early Childhood Education - Early childhood educators can use inclusive dolls and toys to promote empathy and understanding, encourage imaginative play, and cultivate a culture of inclusivity in the classroom.