The 20-20-2 Rule

What is the 20-20-2 rule exactly and how is is different from the many other rules and guidelines about screen use, outside activity and more? On this page you will find all the answers.

The 20-20-2 Rule

What is the “20-20-2” rule, or guideline? After 20 minutes of close work, children should gaze at objects in the distance for at least 20 seconds, and they should be outside intermittently for at least 2 hours per day (Klaver et al, 2020). For more information please visit this website.

What about the 20-20-20 rule?

The “20-20-20” rule means: every 20 minutes, shift your eyes to look at an object at least 20 feet away, for at least 20 seconds. We believe this is also a good rule but we advise children to be outside intermittently for at least 2 hours per day. Outside there is up to 15x more light than indoor. Because light generates dopamine, which is a chemical substance that is made naturally in the body, the wrong growth of the eye can be stopped.

What about the 20-20-2-20 rule?

The “20-20-2-20” rule, also promoted by Unicef, means: After 20 minutes, look faraway and count slowly to 20. After 2 hours working on a digital device, take a 20-minute break. We believe this is also a good rule but we advise children to be outside intermittently for at least 2 hours per day. Outside there is up to 15x more light than indoor. Because light generates dopamine, which is a chemical substance that is made naturally in the body, the wrong growth of the eye can be stopped.

What about the 30-30-30 rule?

The “30-30-30” rule means: Every 30 minutes, look away from the screen for 30 seconds and focus on something at least 30 feet away. We believe this is also a good rule but we advise children to be outside intermittently for at least 2 hours per day. Outside there is up to 15x more light than indoor. Because light generates dopamine, which is a chemical substance that is made naturally in the body, the wrong growth of the eye can be stopped.

What about other rules?

We believe that all rules that shift eyes from a short distance to a long distance are good. Spending time outdoor not only benefits the eyes but also many other things.

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