In June 2022, Mattel will release a new set of Barbies including one with hearing aids. The manufacturer wants children to play with dolls that look like them. Mattel hopes these dolls will help children embrace diversity and inclusion.
Mattel consulted with audiologist, Jen Richardson, AuD, to create the Barbie with hot pink, behind-the-ear hearing aids. These dolls will be launched in Walmart, Target and Amazon in June of 2022.

CNN Style. (2022) Barbie unveils its first-ever doll with hearing aids. (Accessed May 20, 2022).
Recent Posts
Audiology Eggcorns: When Misheard Words Take on a Life of Their Own
How many times have you heard a patient use an incorrect word during speech recognition testing? Hundreds? A search of any social media audiology group…
Advocacy at AAA2025: Don’t Miss These Key Sessions
Ready to take your advocacy efforts to the next level? AAA 2025+HearTECH Expo in New Orleans is your chance to stay updated on key audiology…
Dr. Oz Seeks to Become CMS Administrator
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) administrator oversees Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans at Healthcare.gov. Combined, those programs provide health insurance to…