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Implementing ELLA

  1. Overview
  2. Getting to know App 1
  3. Introducing ELLA to the children
  4. Using tablet devices with children
  5. Tablets in the physical space
  6. Tools and props
  7. Things to try
  8. Critical reflection
  9. Related resources
Home Professional learning Implementing ELLA Using tablet devices with children

Using tablet devices with children

Tablet devices are another resource in the exciting world of education. They provide learning opportunities that children would not be able to access otherwise.

It’s important to develop strong routines to ensure all children are accessing the technology appropriately.

Although many classrooms share one or perhaps two devices, it has been reported that a ratio of one device to five children provides the best learning outcomes.

Children are not required to use the ELLA apps for any minimum amount of time. However, they could reasonably spend a total of 30 to 40 minutes per week spread out over several sessions.

‘It works really well … I’m not monitoring anyone’s screen time – the children do that themselves. So, if the timer’s up, they’re quick to yell out 'Your time’s up! It’s my turn!', so they just call the next person.’

Julie Willmott, ELLA Champion

Device-based timers

Most tablet devices have an inbuilt timer in the clock app, as well as settings to control screen activity:

  • Guided Access (iOS) – Locks the iPad to one app and lets users set a time limit. For help, go to Apple Support.
  • Screen Pinning (Android) – Locks the device to one app. For help, search ‘screen pinning’ for your type of device.

Screen time guidelines

The Australian Government Department of Health sets out their recommendations in Physical activity and exercise guidelines for infancts, toddlers and preschoolers (birth to 5  years).

It is recommended that your preschool keeps track of current screen time recommendations and monitors usage accordingly.

Monitor children’s time on the apps

Review the amount of time each child is spending on the apps.

  1. On the Avatar screen, enter the Administration area. You will need your educator login details.
  2. Select Groups and outcomes.
  3. Tap View your group to the right of the screen.
  4. You will see a bar graph showing each child’s usage per week to a maximum of 60 minutes over the previous ten weeks. Check that a child is not spending too much time on the tablets – or perhaps missing out on turns.
  5. Choose a child’s name to view their individual profile. From here, review the total time this child has spent on all the apps.
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Have a question or need some help?

Contact the ELLA helpdesk

[email protected] 1800 468 303 (9 am – 4 pm AEST, Mon–Fri)