Mattel Launches First-Ever Barbie With Down Syndrome, Mom Of A Girl With DS Says, 'I Couldn't Be Any Happier'

In a historic move, Mattel launched its first-ever Barbie doll with Down Syndrome on April 25. 

On Facebook, the toy company said that they worked closely with the National Down Syndrome Society to create this doll to "allow even more children to see themselves in Barbie, as well as have Barbie reflect the world around them."

The doll's features include a shorter frame and longer torso compared to other Barbies. Its face also has a rounder shape, almond-shaped eyes, smaller ears, and a flat nasal bridge. 

To paint an accurate representation of persons with Down Syndrome, Mattel also added details to the doll's outfit, including a pink necklace with three upward chevrons, which represents the three copies of the 21st chromosome.

It is also wearing a blue and yellow dress, colors of which symbolize Down Syndrome awareness. The doll also has pink ankle foot orthotics to support their feet and ankles.

READ ALSO: Can Down Syndrome Be Detected in Newborn Screening?

It is the newest addition to the Barbie Fashionistas Line, which started in 2009 to include a diverse range of dolls that come in different body types, skin tones, hair types, and fashion styles.

The Fashionistas line features dolls with disabilities, including a doll with a wheelchair and another one with prosthetic legs.

The doll is already out in stores in the US, and some netizens shared that it's already sold out on Amazon. 

Mom reacts on new Barbie doll with Down Syndrome

Mommy Michelle Ressa Aventajado, who has an 11-year-old daughter who has Down Syndrome and is also a long-time Barbie lover, shared her reaction with Smart Parenting.

"When I first read the post on Twitter, I couldn't be any happier. I believe it's important for children of all ages and abilities to see representation, so to see toys or dolls in this case that look like them with similar features." She adds, "To see equal representation affects the way children develop, and ultimately, their self-esteem."

READ ALSO: Her Daughter With Down Syndrome Loved To Pose, So This Mom Got To Work

Mommy Mish, who is also the executive director of Best Buddies Philippines, told Smart Parenting that there are already dollmakers in other countries who are already making beautiful dolls with Down Syndrome, such as Spain and Syria. She believes these dolls are not only important for kids with Down Syndrome to have, but also for neurotypical kids as these can help shape their understanding of the world and recognize the uniqueness of every individual.

"To see equal representation affects the way children develop, and ultimately, their self-esteem."

She said she will definitely purchase this doll for her daughter Gelli, as it would be a lovely addition to her Barbie doll collection she got from her older sister. 

While some netizens say that these dolls don't represent individuals with Down Syndrome well, this is already a big leap for representation. "Having these dolls that represent different types of children, sparks the conversation that then creates awareness and provides an opportunity for change," Mommy Mish said.