Understanding Device Modes
Thriva uses three device modes to support your family’s Device Availability Plan. Each mode creates a different experience for your child.
The Three Built-in Modes
Section titled “The Three Built-in Modes”| Mode | What It Means | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Free Time | Full device access | Relaxation, creative time, social time |
| Focused Mode | Structured access via ThrivaOS | Homework, chores, tasks and rewards |
| Quiet Time | Device is at rest | Bedtime, family meals, outdoor time |
Custom Modes
Section titled “Custom Modes”Beyond the built-in modes, you can create custom modes tailored to your family:
- Homework Mode 📚 - Just school apps and educational sites
- Gaming Time 🎮 - Approved games during scheduled play time
- Reading Hour 📖 - Books and audiobooks before bed
- Creative Mode 🎨 - Art, music, and creative tools
Custom modes let you define exactly which apps and websites are available, creating purpose-built experiences for different activities.
How Modes Work
Section titled “How Modes Work”Modes apply to children, not devices. When you set Johnny to Focused Mode:
- All of Johnny’s linked accounts switch to Focused Mode
- Across all devices where Johnny is registered
- Within about 30 seconds
This means you’re managing your child’s experience, not each individual device.
Default Behavior
Section titled “Default Behavior”When you first install Thriva, devices start in Free Time mode. This gives everyone time to:
- Get used to Thriva being installed
- Explore what each mode does
- Create a Device Availability Plan together
Changing Modes
Section titled “Changing Modes”You can change modes in three ways:
1. Manual Change
Section titled “1. Manual Change”From the Parent Portal:
- Select a child
- Choose a new mode
- Optionally set a duration (“2 hours of Free Time”)
2. Scheduled Change
Section titled “2. Scheduled Change”Create a schedule that automatically changes modes:
- Focused Mode at 3pm (homework time)
- Free Time at 5pm (play time)
- Quiet Time at 8pm (bedtime)
3. AI Suggestions
Section titled “3. AI Suggestions”The Thriva AI may suggest mode changes based on:
- The time of day
- Past patterns
- Upcoming events
- Your child’s recent activity
Choosing the Right Mode
Section titled “Choosing the Right Mode”Use Free Time when:
Section titled “Use Free Time when:”- Your child has earned unstructured time
- They need to relax and decompress
- Creative or social activities are appropriate
- You’re not concerned about what they’re doing
Use Focused Mode when:
Section titled “Use Focused Mode when:”- It’s time for homework or chores
- You want to limit distractions
- Learning activities are the goal
- Your child needs help focusing
Use Quiet Time when:
Section titled “Use Quiet Time when:”- Devices should be completely off
- It’s bedtime
- Family time shouldn’t include screens
- A complete break from devices is needed
Mode Transitions
Section titled “Mode Transitions”When modes change:
| Transition | What Happens |
|---|---|
| → Free Time | Normal desktop/home screen returns |
| → Focused Mode | ThrivaOS launches (learning environment) |
| → Quiet Time | User is logged out/device locks |
Children get a brief warning before transitions so they can save their work.
Learn More
Section titled “Learn More”- Free Time - Full device access
- Focused Mode - Structured learning environment
- Quiet Time - Device rest periods
- Custom Modes - Create your own modes
- Creating Schedules - Automate mode changes