Integrating the 4 Smarts for Success in Children with ASD/ADHD

I recently gave a talk for parents of children with ASD/ADHD at a school. The framework I used was something I’ve put together over time, drawing from an eclectic mix of ACT, CBT, and counseling work with individuals and families living with ADHD and ASD.

🔹 The 4 Smarts

1. Critical Thinking Smart – the ability to process information, reason, and solve problems. 

2. Practical Smart – the ability to apply knowledge in the real world, adapt to challenges, and make things work despite limited resources. 

3. Social Smart – the ability to connect with others, collaborate, and create harmony in relationships. 

4. Self Smart – the ability to understand yourself, pursue what matters, regulate emotions, and sustain well-being.  

What I’ve observed is that children with ASD/ADHD often show strengths in the “thinking smarts” (critical and practical). However, schools in the earlier stages may not nurture these strengths, and the subjects or tasks can feel irrelevant, leading to disengagement.

At the same time, many experience difficulties with the “feeling smarts” (social and self). These areas are crucial for building resilience, social skills, managing emotions, and sustaining motivation. When they’re not supported, disengagement can escalate into bigger challenges like depression and anxiety—both at school and at home.

By recognising and working across all four areas, parents, teachers, and professionals can help children not just to cope, but to grow in a balanced and sustainable way.