Mattel has added a new Barbie designed to represent autistic children, marking another step in the company’s long-running effort to diversify its iconic doll collection.

The move follows previous introductions of dolls representing physical and developmental differences, including dolls with type 1 diabetes, Down syndrome, and visual impairments.

Developed with input from the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), the new figure is intended to reflect behaviors and experiences common among autistic individuals. Unlike standard Barbies, this edition features articulated elbows and wrists, allowing the doll to make gestures some autistic children use to process sensory input or show excitement. Its eyes are angled slightly away from direct gaze, representing how some members of the community avoid eye contact.

The doll also comes with a tablet, noise-canceling headphones, and a fidget spinner. Mattel said it will donate 1,000 dolls to pediatric hospitals across the United States that focus on autism care, making the figure both a plaything and a tool for awareness.

“Working with autistic advocates helped us create a doll that represents real experiences,” a Mattel spokesperson said. “We hope it helps children feel seen and understood.”

Autism is a broad-spectrum neurodevelopmental condition shaped by genetic and environmental factors. Scientific research continues to explore its causes, while myths linking autism to vaccines or screen time persist in some circles.

The new Barbie aligns with Mattel’s ongoing mission to expand representation within its toy lines, offering children a way to engage with diversity through play.