Mattel is releasing its first Barbie with hearing aids in June

The new Barbie will be the first in a new set of dolls added to Fashionistas line as part of its “ongoing efforts toward diversity and inclusion.”

Lisa McKnight, who heads up Mattel’s Barbie and Dolls operations said:

"It’s important for kids to see themselves reflected in product and to encourage play with dolls that don’t resemble them to help them understand and celebrate the importance of inclusion."

To accurately represent behind-the-ear hearing aids, Mattel worked with an audiologist.

Dr. Jen Richardson released a statement saying:

"As an educational audiologist with over 18 years of experience working in hearing loss advocacy, it's inspiring to see those who experience hearing loss reflected in a doll. I'm beyond thrilled for my young patients to see and play with a doll who looks like them."