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Extra Time Requests

When a child reaches their daily screen limit or tries to launch a blocked app, they can request additional screen time directly from the blocking screen. This guide covers how the child submits a request, how the parent is notified, and how the parent approves or denies it.

πŸ” The Request & Resolution Workflow​

The extra time request feature operates as a real-time, interactive flow between the child's device and the parent's phone.

πŸ“² Step 1: Child Submits Request​

When the "Time Out" block screen appears on the child's device:

  1. The child taps the Request More Time button.
  2. The child selects the requested duration (e.g., 15 minutes, 30 minutes, or 1 hour).
  3. (Optional) The child types a brief reason (e.g., "Doing homework" or "Finishing a game").
  4. The child taps Send Request.
  5. The screen displays a Pending Approval message.

Child App Screen: Submitting an Extra Time Request

Caption: The Fami Hero Kids interface showing the child selecting a duration and submitting a request.

πŸ”” Step 2: Parent Receives Push Notification​

As soon as the request is submitted:

  1. The Fami Hero backend dispatches a high-priority push notification to the parent's phone.
  2. The notification reads: "Sarah is requesting 15 minutes of extra screen time for Homework."
  3. Tapping the notification immediately opens the Time Requests screen in the Fami Hero Parent App.

πŸ› οΈ Step 3: Parent Reviews and Approves/Denies​

On the Parent App's Time Requests screen:

  1. The parent views the pending request, including the child's name, requested duration, and typed reason.
  2. The parent chooses one of three actions:
    • Approve (Preset Duration): Tap Approve and select an extension duration (15 mins, 30 mins, 60 mins, or custom duration).
    • Approve Always: Make the specific app "Always Allowed" if it is needed for schoolwork.
    • Deny: Tap Deny or Dismiss.
  3. Once the parent submits the decision, it is securely pushed to the child's device.

Parent App Screen: Reviewing and Approving Time Request

Caption: The parent interface displaying the pending request card with quick Approve (15m, 30m, 1h) and Deny buttons.

⚑ Step 4: Real-time Device Sync​

  • If Approved: The Fami Hero Kids app on the child's phone receives a silent push command, updates its local daily cap, and automatically minimizes the block screen within 2 seconds. The child can immediately resume using the device.
  • If Denied: The block screen displays a "Request Declined" message and remains active. The child is prevented from submitting another request for the next 15 minutes to prevent spamming.

⏭️ Next Step​

Fami Hero also offers robust safety tools to secure your child in the physical world. Continue to Location & Safe Zones.