Barbie Doll reaches out to deaf with sign language

(El Segundo, California-AP) -- In yet another outreach program for Mattel's "Barbie" doll, she is now appealing to the nation's 400-thousand hearing-impaired girls with a version that delivers

Tuesday, June 13th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(El Segundo, California-AP) -- In yet another outreach program for Mattel's "Barbie" doll, she is now appealing to the nation's 400-thousand hearing-impaired girls with a version that delivers "I Love You" in sign language.

Although exact sales figures have not been disclosed, both Mattel and Toys R Us report selling the dolls at a brisk pace since they debuted back in April.

A spokeswoman for the toymaker hopes that Sign Language Barbie can help to break down barriers and facilitate understanding
between children with and without disabilities.

Sign Language Barbie was inspired by the success of Share-a-Smile Becky, Barbie's friend who uses a wheelchair. The doll comes complete with American Sign Language instructions.

On The Net: http://www.mattel.com
http://www.barbie.com
http://www.toysrus.com