Former Education Secretary William J. Bennett Praises Concept Behind New ifocus Computer Game Which Improves Kids' Attention Span

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 13, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Honorable William J. Bennett, Ph.D., former U.S. Secretary of Education, today announced his review of a new computer game called ifocus designed to improve attention, concentration and memory for children ages 6 to 12.  Following discussions with company founders and the pediatric neuropsychologist key to developing ifocus, Dr. Bennett found significant value in the concepts behind the ifocus system.  Dr. Bennett, a popular radio and TV host and author/editor of several bestsellers, also held the post of Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy ("Drug Czar") under President George H.W. Bush.

"The world is a much more distracting place for children than it used to be and requires tremendous focus to sift through the barrage of technology and messages that are thrown at them every day," explained Dr. Bennett. "One of the most important responsibilities of parents is to develop the mental capacities of their children so they can pay attention, read situations accurately and sequence correctly.  These are difficult challenges that children simply can't accomplish from watching television or texting their friends.

"Something that helps children develop their mental muscle in a fun way can pay great dividends. If this game can get them feeling smarter and better about themselves then that helps build the confidence that breeds success for the future," said Dr. Bennett.

The centerpiece of ifocus is Jungle Rangers, a fun computer game which improves mental function through the repeated, structured practice of tasks which challenge kids in an enjoyable and motivating manner.  While playing different types of games along the path to becoming a "Jungle Ranger", children are actually performing cognitive brain exercises to improve their focus, attention, and memory.  In addition to the Jungle Rangers game, ifocus emphasizes a holistic approach with parents' handbooks, CDs, and Quick Start cards to explain how behavior, exercise and nutrition can impact children's focus and attention.  ifocus was developed under the leadership of some of the world's top scientists in pediatric neuropsychology and physiology.  The product is being marketed directly to consumers via television, radio and online.

"If parents can give their children a positive experience that will help them develop the mental skills needed for future success, that's a real blessing.  You have given a great gift to that family and may have even restored greater measures of harmony at home," said Dr. Bennett.

Focus Education Co-Founder and CEO Michael Apstein explained that the game's animation and storyline keeps kids interested and challenged while they are actually engaging in brain process stimulation using integrated neuro-technology.  Research has shown that improvements in the cognitive process can help children overcome distractions, attain more effective levels of concentration, improve memory and decrease frustration during problem solving.

Parents are able to monitor their children's progress using the Jungle Rangers Dashboard which provides a personalized report card on the amount of time spent on each task within the game, as well as which tasks the child excels at and which ones need additional practice.  The best indicators, however, are the significant changes that parents experience including fewer calls from school, better grades and an easier, more organized home life. 

The ifocus development team recommends that a child play Jungle Rangers 30 minutes a day five days a week for six weeks in order to experience improvement in the ability to absorb, store and manipulate information without distractions.  Just like a bad habit that is formed over time, so too are good habits such as the cognitive skills developed by children who play the game consistently.

"We believe so strongly in our product that our Parent-to-Parent Promise allows consumers to return ifocus with a full 100 percent money back guarantee for six months if they don't see the results we've promised.  Besides the changes they'll see in their children in just a couple of weeks, with our game dashboard parents will see visual proof of a child's improvement in focus and attention," said Apstein.         

Based in Los Angeles, Focus Education is a collaboration of scientists, researchers and doctors who share a common vision: to use the best of science and technology to help children achieve their greatest potential.  The company was founded by Michael Apstein and John Able, two business professionals and dads who are committed to bringing the most up-to-date tools and resources to other parents to help children succeed.  For more information visit www.focuseducation.com.

SOURCE Focus Education