The creator of Barbie has officially launched its first doll with Down's syndrome.
Toy company Mattel partnered with National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) in the US and consulted health experts to produce the new figure that's available to purchase for £13.99 on Amazon. Mattel wants all children to be able to see themselves in their dolls, while encouraging others to play with toys that don't look like themselves also.
To mark its release, a new campaign has launched featuring model Ellie Goldstein. The British Vogue cover star, who is one of the most prominent names in UK fashion with Down's Syndrome, said it "means a lot" to see a doll like her on shelves and to have been chosen to unveil it.
“I am so happy that there is a Barbie with Down’s syndrome," said the 21 year-old. “Seeing the doll, I felt so overwhelmed – it meant a lot to me and I’m so honoured and proud that Barbie chose me to show the doll to the world.
“Diversity is important to me as people need to see more people like me out there in the world and not be hidden away.”
Down’s syndrome is caused when a person is born with an extra chromosome which usually causes intellectual disability and physical changes to their appearance.
Medical professionals were also consulted to decide on the characteristics of the doll, which has a shorter frame, longer torso and a new head sculpted with shorter ears and a rounder face. The doll also includes a single line on its palms, a characteristic often associated with people with Down’s syndrome.
Carol Boys, chief executive of the UK Down’s Syndrome Association, said: “The Down’s Syndrome Association (DSA) are pleased to see that Barbie is introducing a doll who has Down’s syndrome into their range.
“As the only charity in the UK supporting all aspects of Down’s syndrome, we often hear from families who feel their children are not represented enough in the mainstream media. We therefore welcome the fact that children in our community will be able to play with a doll that represents them and their lives.
“We look forward to seeing her on the shelves alongside Barbies who wear hearing aids, use wheelchairs and celebrate inclusion.”
The Barbie Fashionistas line, which began in 1959, has seen more than 175 looks with different skin tones, hair textures, body sizes and dolls with different disabilities.
Lisa McKnight, executive vice president and global head of Barbie dolls at Mattel, said: “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.
"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."
The new Barbie doll can be ordered on Amazon for £13.99.
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