The first Down's Syndrome Barbie doll has been created by Mattel.
Created in consultation with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) in the US, the new Barbie is available for pre-order in the UK from Tuesday.
Medical professionals were also consulted when designing the doll's appearance including its shorter frame, longer torso and a new head sculpted with shorter ears and a rounder face.
The new doll also includes a single line on its palms which is a characteristic often associated with people with Down’s syndrome.
Marking its release, one of the UK’s most prominent models with Down’s syndrome, Ellie Goldstein, appeared in the campaign's materials
The 21-year-old model who has been featured as one of British Vogue’s cover stars for the magazine’s May edition, said: “I am so happy that there is a Barbie with Down’s syndrome.
“Seeing the doll, I felt so overwhelmed – it meant a lot to me and I’m so honoured and proud that Barbie chose me to show the doll to the world.
“Diversity is important to me as people need to see more people like me out there in the world and not be hidden away.”
How to pre-order the new Barbie Down's syndrome doll in the UK
The new doll forms part of the Barbie Fashionistas line, which began in 1959.
The line has seen more than 175 looks with different skin tones, hair textures, body sizes and dolls with different disabilities.
Lisa McKnight, executive vice president and global head of Barbie dolls at Mattel, said: “As the most diverse doll line on the market, Barbie plays an important role in a child’s early experiences and we are dedicated to doing our part to counter social stigma through play.”
The doll is available to pre-order from Smyths with an RRP of £13.99.
Carol Boys, chief executive of the UK Down’s Syndrome Association, said: “The Down’s Syndrome Association (DSA) are pleased to see that Barbie is introducing a doll who has Down’s syndrome into their range.
“As the only charity in the UK supporting all aspects of Down’s syndrome, we often hear from families who feel their children are not represented enough in the mainstream media.
“We therefore welcome the fact that children in our community will be able to play with a doll that represents them and their lives.
“We look forward to seeing her on the shelves alongside Barbies who wear hearing aids, use wheelchairs and celebrate inclusion.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here