Hill says Mikko, who is nonverbal, also uses an AAC device, which helps people who have speech or language problems to communicate. “Autism is such an invisible disability at times, and to see that it’s being represented through Barbie – everybody knows who Barbie is – it felt really good,

The new autistic Barbie joins an existing line of diverse dolls, including those with Down syndrome, diabetes and more. See more dolls.

Mattel spent 18 months working with an advocacy organization to develop the doll, which includes noise-canceling headphones and a fidget spinner.