Smart but Scattered

“Groundbreaking....Comprehensive, accessible, and hopeful....Dawson and Guare's work should be considered essential. (starred review).”

—Library Journal (on the first edition)


“I have read countless books on executive skills, but this one truly stands out. It has helped me both as an educator and parent. The authors clearly understand the challenges kids face and offer guidance without making parents feel like they’ve done something wrong. With such a wide range of approaches, there’s no doubt that every reader will discover something that works for them. This is a book I know I'll return to again and again when new challenges arise.”

—Stephanie O., Glen Gardner, New Jersey


“As both a teacher and parent, I am grateful that this book came my way! The real-life examples make the strategies easily applicable to the school and home scenarios that I see day in and day out. This book has helped me better understand my students' and my own children’s strengths and weaknesses, which allows me to adjust my support to their specific needs. I have lost count of the 'ah-ha' moments this book has given me. It is exciting to see children's academic and personal growth as I put what I’ve learned into practice!”

—Beth Kuschel, Teacher, First Lutheran Church and School, Elkhorn, Wisconsin


“As a pediatric neuropsychologist, I have recommended Smart but Scattered to hundreds—if not thousands—of parents. I didn’t think it was possible to improve on a classic, but the authors have done just that! With deep insight and empathy, the book provides abundant ideas and activities to increase executive function skills. Information about technology—a distraction for most 'scattered' kids—is a wonderful addition to the second edition. I love this book.”

—Ellen Braaten, PhD, author of Bright Kids Who Can't Keep Up


“This is the book I wish I had after nagging my children for the 25th time to put their toys away and do their homework. The chapter on the impact of technology on executive skills especially resonated with me. As a teacher, this will be my 'go-to' for my work with students and families struggling with executive skills. I can't wait to use the executive skills questionnaires to help parents determine their children’s strengths and challenges. The book includes easy-to-implement ideas and strategies for addressing areas of difficulty and using a child’s strengths to their advantage, interspersed with real-life examples.”

—Colleen Loeffler, Extended Learning Teacher, David's Star Lutheran School, Jackson, Wisconsin


“A revolutionary guide for parents. The second edition offers fresh perspectives on important issues like the impact of technology on developing minds. Smart but Scattered gives parents skills and confidence to enhance their child's success—with strategies that take just 5 to 10 minutes a day.”

—Julie Gettman, PhD, NCSP, ABSNP, Executive Director, School Neuropsychology Institute


“The second edition improves on the original masterpiece! The authors empower you to foster your child's self-awareness and growth—even if executive skills aren't your own strong suit. What sets this book apart is its user-friendly format, combining scientific insights with actionable advice. The questionnaires alone make the book worthwhile, providing crucial insights into your child's strengths and weaknesses. This is an invaluable resource for anyone dedicated to nurturing a child's potential.”

—Michael Delman, MEd, Founder and CEO, Beyond BookSmart


“This masterfully written book is an indispensable resource. It is packed with practical, evidence-based strategies that you can readily implement to support your child's development. I cannot recommend this book highly enough!”

—Lynn Meltzer, PhD, President and Director, Research Institute for Learning and Development, Lexington, Massachusetts; Harvard Graduate School of Education