The Barbie brand continues to make strides to further inclusivity in the doll line by introducing a Chelsea doll with Scoliosis.

Mattel’s Barbie brand continually strives to offer one of the most inclusive doll portfolios on the market and this year, the brand continues to make strides to further inclusivity by introducing a Chelsea doll with Scoliosis. Chelsea, Barbie’s little sister, is core to the Barbie world and with the release of Chelsea with Scoliosis – featuring a doll with curvature in the spine and a removable back brace – Barbie hopes to better reflect the world around us for all kids to see themselves in play.

To ensure the accuracy of the doll, Barbie worked closely with board certified neurosurgeon and specialist in children’s complex spinal disorders Dr. Luke Macyszyn, who provided counsel throughout the development of the Chelsea doll with Scoliosis. The doll was made to be reflective of what kids are seeing around them, helping to normalise back braces for children who may wear them and encouraging children who don’t wear back braces to celebrate the importance of inclusion.

The Chelsea doll with Scoliosis marks an important step in the brand’s journey in increasing representation by adding more variety in looks and providing infinitely more ways to spark imagination.

“We believe in the power of representation and are committed to creating dolls in a variety of looks so that kids can see themselves in Barbie – and now, in a line celebrating Barbie’s little sister Chelsea. Our Chelsea line provides infinitely more ways to spark storytelling, all while providing kids with a way to develop their empathy and social processing skills through doll play,” commented Lisa McKnight, executive vice president and global head of Barbie and Dolls, Mattel.

The 6-inch Chelsea doll with Scoliosis is wearing a pink dress with green back brace, white shoes, and has her long brunette hair styled in waves. She will be available in the UK from Smyths Toy Stores nationwide.