Focused Mode
Focused Mode provides structured device access through ThrivaOS - a dedicated environment for homework, learning, and productive activities.
What Happens in Focused Mode
Section titled “What Happens in Focused Mode”| Platform | Experience |
|---|---|
| Windows | ThrivaOS replaces the desktop (fullscreen kiosk) |
| Android | ThrivaOS launcher replaces the home screen |
Regular apps and the normal desktop are temporarily unavailable. Your child works within ThrivaOS until the mode changes.
What’s Available in ThrivaOS
Section titled “What’s Available in ThrivaOS”ThrivaOS provides a focused environment with:
Core Features
Section titled “Core Features”- Tasks & Schedule - View assigned tasks and upcoming mode changes
- AI Assistant - Chat with Thriva’s helpful AI for guidance and support
- Approved Apps & Websites - Only the apps and sites you’ve allowed
- Habits Tracker - Track daily habits (with optional Habitica integration)
- Rewards Shop - View earned rewards and request redemptions
- Personalization - Choose desktop themes and backgrounds
Customizable Content
Section titled “Customizable Content”- Approved websites - Add sites your child needs for homework (Google Docs, Khan Academy, etc.)
- School portals - Access Google Classroom, Canvas, and other educational sites
- Approved apps (Android) - Allow specific apps during Focused Mode
When to Use Focused Mode
Section titled “When to Use Focused Mode”Focused Mode is ideal for:
- Homework time - Remove distractions during study
- Chore time - When tasks need to be completed first
- Learning activities - Educational games, reading, practice
- Morning routine - Get ready without device distractions
- Transition periods - Between activities when focus helps
Why Focused Mode Works
Section titled “Why Focused Mode Works”The goal isn’t punishment - it’s removing temptation:
| Without Focused Mode | With Focused Mode |
|---|---|
| ”I’ll just check YouTube quickly…” | YouTube isn’t available |
| Constant notification interruptions | Notifications are paused |
| ”I forgot what I was doing” | Limited options = clearer focus |
| Arguments about what’s allowed | Boundaries are automatic |
Many children actually prefer Focused Mode for homework because it removes the internal struggle of resisting distractions.
Scheduling Focused Mode
Section titled “Scheduling Focused Mode”Common Focused Mode schedules:
- After school - 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM (homework first)
- Morning routine - 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM (get ready for school)
- Before bed - 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM (wind down without stimulating content)
You can also activate it manually:
- Go to child’s profile in Parent Portal
- Set mode to “Focused Mode”
- Optionally set a duration
Customizing Focused Mode
Section titled “Customizing Focused Mode”Adding Allowed Sites
Section titled “Adding Allowed Sites”Some homework requires specific websites:
- Go to Settings → Apps & Websites
- Add sites your child needs (Google Docs, Khan Academy, etc.)
- These become available during Focused Mode
Approving Apps
Section titled “Approving Apps”Certain apps might be needed:
- Go to Settings → Apps & Websites
- Mark apps as “Available in Focused Mode”
- They’ll appear in ThrivaOS
Adjusting by Child
Section titled “Adjusting by Child”Each child can have different Focused Mode settings:
- Younger children: More restricted
- Teens: More apps/sites for schoolwork
- Different needs for different kids
Transitioning Into Focused Mode
Section titled “Transitioning Into Focused Mode”When Focused Mode begins:
- Child gets a 2-minute warning
- Current apps close gracefully
- ThrivaOS launches automatically
- A friendly message explains what’s happening
Breaking Out of Focused Mode
Section titled “Breaking Out of Focused Mode”If your child is consistently trying to bypass Focused Mode:
- Have a conversation about why
- Revisit your Device Availability Plan together
- Consider if the schedule needs adjustment
- Focus on trust, not technology
Tips for Success
Section titled “Tips for Success”Explain before implementing: Show your child ThrivaOS before scheduling it.
Start small: Begin with short Focused Mode periods and extend as it becomes routine.
Make it positive: “This is your homework environment” not “You’re locked out.”
Be consistent: Predictable schedules work better than surprise restrictions.
Celebrate completion: When Focused Mode ends, acknowledge their accomplishment.
Related
Section titled “Related”- ThrivaOS Features - Deep dive into the Focused Mode environment
- Free Time - Unrestricted device access
- Quiet Time - Device rest periods
- Creating Schedules - Automate mode changes