Barbie doll maker Mattel has made its first doll with scoliosis.
The toy company’s line for Barbie’s little sister, Chelsea, will have curvature of the spine and a removable back brace, aimed at normalising the equipment and encouraging children to celebrate inclusion.
The team at Mattel worked closely with Dr Luke Macyszyn, a neuro-surgeon and specialist in children’s complex spinal disorders, who advised the designers throughout the doll’s development.
Lisa McKnight, executive vice president at Mattel, said: “We believe in the power of representation.”
