Raising Body Confident Kids with Autism and ADHD (S8E28)

How do we help our neurodivergent kids feel confident in their own bodies? That’s the big question in this week’s episode of The Autism Dad Podcast. I’m joined by Dr. Whitney Casares, pediatrician, public health expert, autism mom, and fellow at the American Academy of Pediatrics, to talk about her new book My One of a Kind Body: The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Me.
Dr. Casares opens up about raising her autistic and ADHD children, why body image hits differently for neurodivergent kids, and how parents can support healthy habits without shame or pressure. We talk about diet culture, social media, body bullies, and how to help kids see themselves as enough, exactly as they are.
If you’ve ever worried about your child’s self-esteem, eating struggles, or how to navigate tricky conversations about body changes, this episode will give you guidance, validation, and tools to move forward.

• Why body image issues impact autistic and ADHD kids differently

• How Dr. Casares’ daughter inspired her new book

• The lasting effects of diet culture on kids (and parents)

• Helping neurodivergent kids navigate social media pressure

• Practical ways to address sensory eating and movement challenges

• Scripts and strategies parents can use when tough questions come up

• Why BMI isn’t the full picture of health for children

• How to model body confidence while managing your own struggles

Dr. Casares is a board-certified pediatrician and public health expert, and autism mom. She is a fellow at the American Academy of Pediatrics, host of The Modern Mommy Doc Podcast, and author of several books, including My One of a Kind Body. Her work helps parents raise confident, resilient kids while giving themselves grace along the way.

Website: modernmommydoc.com

Rob Gorski is the founder of The Autism Dad blog and host of The Autism Dad Podcast. A single father to three autistic children, Rob shares his family’s journey to validate and support parents raising neurodivergent kids. His work has been featured by CNN, ABC News, BBC Worldwide, and more.

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