The Illawarra Grammar School prep school students are among many at the school who use the tablet at home to play educational games, draw pictures, count and say the alphabet.

At school they use computers and interactive whiteboards to watch videos and read books.

As Jahzara and Taj progress through school, technology will be an even bigger part of their lives.

Kindergarten students at TIGS use iPads to calculate, read and log their homework, while senior students can bring along their device of choice to use in class.

Next term the school will unveil its refurbished library which will give all students access to computer booths, iPad stations and interactive screens.

‘‘We’re taking the library from the 20th century into the 21st century and it’s going to be a technology hub,’’ TIGS publicity assistant Allison Collins said.

Ms Collins has three children at TIGS and compared denying them access to an iPad to denying them a pen or book in the past.

‘‘They automatically know how to just flick through it and it’s natural, like picking up a crayon, so we have no choice but to jump on board,’’ she said.

‘‘This technology is instant and always up to date ... It’s engaging as well because it’s about seeing, listening and all the senses - and they can follow it up when they get home.’'