Sanford Health Experts Recommend 20-20-20 Rule for Youth Screen Time as School Year Begins
As the school year commences, medical professionals at Sanford Health are advising parents and children to adopt the '20-20-20 rule' to manage screen time effectively. This guideline suggests that for every 20 minutes spent looking at a screen, individuals should take a 20-second break to focus on an object 20 feet away. Dr. Katelyn Mickelson, a Sanford Health child psychologist, emphasizes that the impact of screen time largely depends on its content and purpose. Educational activities, such as using YouTube for skill-building like origami, are considered more beneficial than passive consumption like 'doom scrolling' on social media platforms. The recommendation highlights the distinction between active, educational screen use and passive, entertainment-focused screen use. Additionally, experts advise against screen use during meals and before bedtime to promote healthier habits. 
