Free Time Periods¶
Free time periods define when your child is allowed to use the computer. Outside of these periods, the computer is locked or restricted. This gives you precise control over screen time schedules.
How Free Time Works¶
When a free time period is active, the child can use the computer according to their profile's rules (app groups, category filters, and time limits still apply). Outside of free time periods, the computer shows a lock screen indicating when the next free time period begins.
Setting Up Free Time¶
- Open Focus settings with the admin password.
- Navigate to Parental > [Child's Name] > Free Time.
- Click Add Period to create a new free time window.
- Configure the period:
- Name -- Give it a descriptive name (e.g., "After School," "Weekend Morning")
- Days -- Select which days this period applies
- Start time -- When the child can begin using the computer
- End time -- When the free time period ends
- Click Save.
Example Schedules¶
School-Age Child (Ages 7-12)¶
| Period | Days | Start | End |
|---|---|---|---|
| After school | Mon-Fri | 3:30 PM | 5:30 PM |
| Weekend morning | Sat-Sun | 9:00 AM | 11:00 AM |
| Weekend afternoon | Sat-Sun | 2:00 PM | 4:00 PM |
Teenager (Ages 13-17)¶
| Period | Days | Start | End |
|---|---|---|---|
| After school | Mon-Fri | 3:00 PM | 8:00 PM |
| Weekend | Sat-Sun | 10:00 AM | 9:00 PM |
Multiple Periods¶
Create as many free time periods as needed. Common configurations include:
- Split periods -- Allow usage before and after homework time with a gap in between
- Different weekend rules -- More generous time on Saturday and Sunday
- Holiday mode -- Create special periods for school breaks and holidays
Interaction with Time Limits¶
Free time periods and daily time limits work together:
- The child can only use the computer during free time periods
- Within those periods, daily time limits still apply
- If the daily limit is reached during a free time period, the computer locks even though free time has not ended
Example
If free time is 3 PM to 6 PM (3 hours) but the daily limit is 2 hours, the child can use 2 hours of the 3-hour window. The computer locks after 2 hours of active use, even though the free time period extends until 6 PM.
Emergency Override¶
Parents can temporarily grant additional time by entering the admin password. This is useful for:
- Homework that takes longer than expected
- Special occasions
- Family activities that require computer access
Consistency
Children respond best to consistent rules. Try to maintain regular schedules and use overrides sparingly to establish healthy screen time habits.