[Teachers] Tips and Tricks for Classroom Implementation

Technology Rules

When introducing technology to your classroom, especially with a product like Ignite by Hatch™, it's important to establish clear rules and expectations. Children need to understand what is expected regarding technology use, and we recommend involving them in creating these rules and guidelines.

Here are some of our recommended rules:

• Use gentle hands.
• No hitting or banging the devices. Have the children tap their noses to demonstrate how to tap the device.
• Ensure hands are clean before playing.
• Do not bring other materials into the technology center (e.g., glitter, crayons, magnets, etc.).

Implementation Tips

Make Ignite a Part of Your Classroom and Routine

• Schedule regular playtime: Find a consistent day and time for children to log in and play. Embedding this time into your schedule ensures regular access and consistency within the classroom.
• Utilize spare moments: Look for opportunities, such as early arrivals, late pickups, or when they finish tasks early, to give children bonus moments to log in and engage with Ignite.
• Visual reminders: A visual reminder of Hatch™ in the classroom can prompt usage and discussions. Put up our Star Chart for children to track their star collection throughout the week, and encourage them to create their avatars in real life.

Get Creative With Playtime

• Set reminders: Classrooms get busy quickly! If you’re worried about forgetting to reserve time to play, set a reminder on your calendar or make a daily schedule so that your children can help you remember.
• Engage with children: Children love playing with someone. Tune in and watch them play Ignite. Let them take the lead, but talk to them about what is happening and what they are working on.
• Create a focused space: If possible, look for a quiet place for children to play. Having a space where they can focus without distractions will help them learn.
• Share real-life applications: Once a child has finished a game in Ignite, ask them how they could play that game in real life! For example, if a child has finished an activity asking them to identify people’s emotions, play emotion charades, where you act out an emotion and they must guess what it is.
• Have flexible learning time: If you have a busy day, plan on using Ignite as a way for some children to reset and have some quiet time. Remember, you don’t need to have a large chunk of time set aside for learning. It’s okay for learning to be sprinkled throughout the day at times that fit best with your classroom schedule.

Become an Ignite Expert

• Explore Ignite thoroughly: Hands-on exploration is key to fully grasping any technology tool's capabilities. Set aside time to explore Ignite and uncover all its features and functionalities thoroughly. Here are some articles to get you started:
  • How to Access and Utilize the "Explore Ignite" Feature
  • What Is the Website to View Child Progress?
  • Ignite Login Best Practices
  • [Teachers, School Admins, Org Admins, Family Members] Expand Your Children's Skills With Curricular Experiences
• Understand the learning environment: Effective support for children's educational journey starts with understanding what they are learning. Delve into Ignite's content to gain a comprehensive understanding of its learning environment and activities. This knowledge will empower you to assist children in overcoming any challenges they may encounter.

Practice Joyful Implementation

• Infuse excitement: Frame the use of Ignite as an adventure or quest to spark curiosity and engagement among children.

• Collaborate with peers: Join forces with fellow teachers to share integration ideas, discuss successes, and tackle challenges together.

• Celebrate achievements: Recognize and celebrate Ignite successes in your classroom. Show children that their learning efforts with Ignite are valued and appreciated.

Try Targeted Modeling

• Personal demonstration: Begin by personally demonstrating how to use Ignite, emphasizing its key features and functionalities. This serves as a clear model for children to follow.

• Encourage observation: Invite children to observe your interactions with Ignite, explaining your thought process aloud. This modeling helps them grasp effective navigation and utilization of Ignite.

Co-Engage With Children

• Promote collaboration: Foster a collaborative learning environment by encouraging peer-to-peer engagement. Encourage children to work together on Ignite-related activities, promoting teamwork and shared learning experiences.

• Facilitate discussions: Engage children in discussions about Ignite's content, encouraging them to share insights and discoveries. This not only enhances understanding but also builds a sense of community within the classroom.

Integrate Ignite Into Your Curriculum

• Align with lesson plans: Integrate Ignite into your existing curriculum to reinforce classroom concepts. Align Ignite activities with lesson plans to enhance and extend the learning experience.

• Explore cross-curricular connections: Foster cross-curricular connections by incorporating Ignite learning across various subjects. Utilize Ignite as a versatile tool that enhances learning and understanding across disciplines.

Engage in Regular Reflection

• Schedule reflection sessions: Regularly schedule reflection sessions with children to discuss their experiences with Ignite. This feedback loop allows for continuous improvement and optimization of learning activities.

• Encourage ownership: Encourage children to share their opinions and thoughts about Ignite. This fosters a sense of ownership and active involvement in the learning process.

• Prioritize cultural competence: Prioritize cultural competence by seeking training on diversity and inclusion. Ensure teaching practices are inclusive and respectful of diverse backgrounds and experiences.