---
title: App for raising IQ for children
description: Scientifically proven method packaged in a fun app that helps children with disabilities and also lowers the chance of Alzheimer for adults
slug: case-riq
domain: [Healthcare, Education]
market: USA
categories: [Mobile Projects]
lastmod: 2026-04-21
author: Igor Dobzhanskiy
---

# App for raising IQ for children with special needs

A scientifically proven method packaged in a fun, accessible app that helps children with disabilities improve cognitive abilities—backed by 50+ years of research and achieving 90%+ success rate.

**Role:** Product Designer · **Timeline:** 4 months · **Team:** 10 people · **Market:** USA

**Deliverables:** Mobile App, Design System, User Research, Accessibility, Gamification

## The Challenge

A unique algorithm developed over 50 years by scientists needed to reach children with special needs, individuals on the autism spectrum, and those seeking prophylactic care for Alzheimer's disease. The mission: create an app where accessibility isn't just a feature—it's the foundation.

- **SMART System** — Brain training proven to increase intellectual abilities through peer-reviewed studies
- **90%+ Success Rate** — Users improve IQ by clinically significant amounts within 6 months
- **Inclusive Design** — WCAG 2.2 Level AAA compliance

## Deep Research

Through rigorous analysis of scientific materials, I uncovered insights that shaped every pixel:

- **Dyslexia Connection** — Led to dyslexia-friendly fonts like Open-Dyslexic and Arial
- **Color Sensitivity** — Neutral, muted colors with customization for individual needs
- **Animation Triggers** — User-controlled animations on/off for sensory sensitivities

## Design System

Built a comprehensive design system from scratch with WCAG 2.2 Level AAA compliance—Urbanist font, Glowie mascot, custom icons, color tokens, and animation states.

## Three-Layer Architecture

Parent and child dashboards with different access levels—parents track progress and subscriptions; children get a gamified experience with daily challenges, competitions, and rewards.

## Gamification

Multi-layered motivation: complete test levels to unlock mini-games, earn coins, spend coins on more games, complete daily challenges for sparks.

## Inclusive Design

Complete interface customization—intuitive timers, sound control, animation control, and color adjustment per user.

## Results

| Metric | Outcome |
| --- | --- |
| AAA | WCAG 2.2 Level AAA — highest accessibility standard |
| 4mo | Concept to launch |
| 14% | Productivity increase through design system |
| 90%+ | Users improving IQ within 6 months |

> "Dylan's social skills really improved. He has also improved academically." — Parents of 12-year-old boy

> "Math class is easier for me now and I am quicker at figuring things out in all my subjects." — Thomas, age 12

## Key Takeaways

1. Deep research is essential when users experience the world differently than you do.
2. Accessibility requires collaboration across designers, developers, scientists, and parents.
3. Customization over colors, sounds, and animations is fundamental—not optional.