BFT - Bear Focus Timer

App review by Christy Matte, Common Sense Media
BFT - Bear Focus Timer Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 5+

Simple timer breaks tasks into chunks, doesn't distract.

iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android Paid Productivity
Rate app

Parents say

age 6+

Based on 1 review

Kids say

No reviews yet.

Add your rating

Common Sense is a nonprofit organization. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free.
Rate app
  • BFT - Bear Focus Timer App: Screenshot #1
  • BFT - Bear Focus Timer App: Screenshot #2
  • BFT - Bear Focus Timer App: Screenshot #3
  • BFT - Bear Focus Timer App: Screenshot #4
  • BFT - Bear Focus Timer App: Screenshot #5

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

A Lot or a Little?

The parents' guide to what's in this app.

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that BFT - Bear Focus Timer is a low-distraction, Pomodoro-style timer, which means it helps break tasks into chunks. It's a tool without a lot of bells and whistles; the app is entirely black and white. The focus times and breaks are fully customizable, so it's appropriate for younger kids as well as older ones and adults. NOTE: There was no privacy policy available at the time of our review.

Community Reviews

Missy mae
Missy mae Adult
March 31, 2020
age 6+

Help for single parents an struggling childern

It work
See all 1 parent review

What’s It About?

BFT - BEAR FOCUS TIMER uses the Pomodoro method to help kids focus. The idea is that if kids work on a task for concrete lengths of time with short breaks, they'll maximize focus. The app allows kids (or parents) to set the length of focus and short break time. They also set the number of focus sessions and a long break time. BFT - Bear Focus Timer also has several white noise options such as water, wind, rain, fire, and night sounds. The alert for breaks can vibrate, chirp, and/or blink a notification light on the device. When kids successfully complete a focus session, the bear congratulates them.

Is It Any Good?

While many focus apps have the potential for distraction, this one is streamlined and simple, allowing kids to pay attention to their work rather than their timer. The simplicity of BFT - Bear Focus Timer is refreshing, without any gamification. It's cute, but it's just a timer. The addition of optional white noise is ideal for kids who need some sort of background noise to help with concentrate or tune out ambient sounds. The one flaw with the black and white design is that it can be difficult to see the play button as it blends in with the bear's fur. Families who are looking for ways to help kids stay on task will find BFT - Bear Focus Timer to be a solid option.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about focus. Other than using a timer like BFT - Bear Focus Timer, what are some things you can do to increase your focus? What things in your environment impact your ability to focus?

  • Families can talk about learning with apps. Do you think this is a good app for learning? Why, or why not? What can you learn?

App Details

Our Editors Recommend

For kids who love time-management and apps to stay focused

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

See how we rate