There are billions of people in this world, and no two are exactly alike. Sometimes we can see differences, and other times we cannot. Regardless, it’s always important to treat everyone with kindness, compassion, and love. Barbie, one of the most recognized dolls in the world, understands that acceptance and representation are key for everyone. In partnership with the Autistic Self-Advocacy Network, Mattel launched its new Autistic Barbie Doll. According to a news release, “The Barbie design team made intentional design choices for the Autistic Barbie doll, from creating a new face sculpt to customizing the sensory-sensitive fabric of the doll’s dress – recognizing that this doll represents how individuals on the autism spectrum may experience, process and express the world around them, and that every autistic experience is unique.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Barbie (@barbie) The Partnership Created Something Brand New for Autistic Barbie Autistic Barbie has key physical features, including elbow and wrist articulation, “allowing for stimming, hand flapping, and other hand gestures.” Additionally, the doll as a shifted eye gaze “which aims to reflect how some members of the autistic community may sometimes avoid direct eye contact. Additionally, Autistic Barbie comes with a fidget spinner, headphones, and a tablet featuring symbol-based Augmentative and Alternative Communication apps. “As proud members of the autistic community, our ASAN team was thrilled to help create the first-ever autistic Barbie doll. It is so important for young autistic people to see authentic, joyful representations of themselves, and that’s exactly what this doll is. Partnering with Barbie allowed us to share insights and guidance throughout the design process to ensure the doll fully represents and celebrates the autistic community, including the tools that help us be independent,” Colin Killick, Executive Director, Autistic Self Advocacy Network, shared in a news release. “We’re honored to see this milestone come to life, and we will keep pushing for more representation like this that supports our community in dreaming big and living proud.” Fans loved seeing the new Autistic Barbie on social media. “As an autistic mother to a non verbal daughter this is literally everything we could have asked for! Thanks for representing us so beautifully! My daughter is getting to grow up in a whole different world than me! Seeing diversity and representation in the doll world is just so beautiful it makes me feel immense joy!” A parent sahred. “Thank you so much for this representation. My 6 year old will love playing with this Barbie. Her 11 year old old autistic brother rocks headphones, an AAC device, and fidgets like the prince he is. Where can we find this Barbie? We looked at our local Walmart. I’ll check your website now too. Again, thanks so much Barbie,” another agreed. This story’s featured image was provided by Mattel.