Curious, funny, creative, friend of all animals, loves counting money but not a fan of school.

One day, Gavin’s 3rd-grade teacher called to ask for our help. Although Gavin was very well liked in class, he had a habit of distracting his fellow students. Standing during tests, walking around, tapping his pencil. She was out of ideas on how to help him be himself but also not distract his fellow students.

During this same phone call, we learned more about a new law in Tennessee. The Tennessee Retention Law, implemented in 2021, required students to receive a high enough score on their state standardized tests to pass third grade. This potentially put several students at risk of not progressing to fourth grade. She let us know that, unfortunately, Gavin was at risk of being one of these students.

His teacher explained that there was a retake opportunity coming up. If he received a high enough score, he could avoid repeating 3rd grade or, in his opinion, the worst scenario: summer school!

“He’s a very bright kid,” the soft-spoken, exhausted teacher explained. But I think he makes himself nervous during tests. Maybe you can work on some way to help him be able to focus during the retake test?”

Gavin and his dad sat at the dinner table one day after school and talked options. What helps him focus? What helps him stay calm, what could help when he feels nervous energy rising up during this very important test?

That’s how the FocusFit hoodie came to be: An all-in-one solution for kids like Gavin who need to move while staying on task. With silent fidget features and a stylish design, this hoodie became the key to helping him focus without distractions. We quickly created a prototype that arrived just in time for his retake test.

We’re happy to share that since then, Gavin passed his test, is thriving in fourth grade, and had a school-free summer. He is even more excited to bring his innovation and ideas to his newest role: Head of Imagination at Focus Fit.

We want to share this product with families everywhere to help other kids who struggle with ADHD or focus issues feel confident in school and beyond.