FAQ

Your questions, our answers!

Is the Leka solution suitable for my practice?

Which profiles is the Leka solution designed for?

The solution will help people with neurodevelopmental disorders (such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, intellectual disabilities or delays, "DYS" conditions, language disorders, etc.), as well as those with motor, sensory, or cognitive impairments, to develop their autonomy, cognitive skills, communication abilities, and psychomotor skills. Leka can also support neurotypical children in their various learning processes from 2 to 5 years old.

 

What is the age range of people benefiting from the solution?

We design Leka for children aged 3 to 12. However, we focus more on developmental age. During our tests in specialized centers in France, Leka turned out to be an extremely useful tool for adolescents and adults with significant impairments. Leka is also used in daycare centers and nurseries. It is a wonderful integration tool for young children with disabilities.

Is the solution only for individuals with autism?

The journey began with children with ASD. Then we realized that the challenges associated with autism are also found in other disabilities. Since Leka helps the child with a specific need, we understood that we shouldn’t focus on the disability or diagnosis (Down syndrome, ASD, etc.) but rather on the specific skills of each individual.

Leka can therefore help work on sensory processing, social interactions, communication, autonomy, fine and gross motor skills, cognitive development, and more. It doesn't matter if the individuals are autistic, have Down syndrome, multiple disabilities, or are undiagnosed. These people are different, and because of that difference, they are often left on the margins of our world. We offer a product that adapts to their needs.

Moreover, Leka is a playful learning tool designed to support the sensory, cognitive, and motor development of individuals facing difficulties, and it will be beneficial regardless of the person's abilities.

Is the solution intended for use by parents and professionals?

The Leka solution is a tool designed for professionals in the medico-social field (psychomotor therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, speech therapists, etc.).

However, families can also benefit from it upon the recommendation of a medico-social professional.

The solution in no way replaces the caregiver. It is therefore important for interested families to be aware of the commitment required in implementing a Leka educational project.

What are the benefits of the solution?

How does Leka promote social interaction?

In addition to being a new tool in the professional's toolbox, Leka is a true third party in the relationship.

Its presence catalyzes exchanges and communication between the person being supported and the professional.

Leka can also be used in group activities. In this context, it allows individuals to work on social interactions, turn-taking, and collaboration.

 

Can Leka replace the caregiver?

No, absolutely not!

Parents and professionals are the only ones capable of helping the person progress. We provide them with tools to assist in this task, which requires their full attention! Leka acts as a mediator and motivator, encouraging the person to engage and make progress. It’s up to the parents and professionals to make the best use of it.

Leka and other support therapies

How does Leka integrate into existing therapy models, whether behavioral (like ABA) or developmental? Do you support any particular models?

Leka is not a new therapy or support model, but rather a tool designed to facilitate the implementation of proven methods that use a playful approach. These methods can be either behavioral or developmental.

For the ABA method, Leka provides predefined reinforcers based on the individual’s preferences.

For developmental methods, Leka proves to be a very engaging game for the person being supported, encouraging their progression.

We do not advocate for any particular method. We believe that multiple approaches and tools are often necessary to effectively support a child. Our interactions with professionals have enabled us to adapt Leka to methods that use play, such as ABA, the Denver Early Start Model, 3i, Floortime, Play Therapy, TEACH, PECS, and more.

 

Leka can help peolple with Asperger's Syndrome, and how?

Leka can certainly help people with Asperger's Syndrome. Just like individuals with other forms of autism, those with Asperger's may face challenges in interaction, verbal communication, and understanding social codes. Leka, with its embodied nature, allows for work on processes of symbolization, communication, and emotions. The app also offers multiplayer activities, allowing children to play together with Leka, which encourages social interactions. It is therefore highly recommended for use in this context.

If you would like more detailed information, feel free to send us a message, and we will provide a more specific response tailored to the needs of the people you support.

The technical features of the robot

Can an accessibility tool be connected to Leka?

Tests are currently being conducted for all hardware additions to our app, such as the integration of eye-tracking controls. We will keep you informed of the results. In the meantime, if your hardware is compatible with an iPad, there should be no issue using it with our app.

 

Can you add your own pictograms to the Leka app?

No, it is not currently possible to add your own pictograms to the app. We have chosen to create Leka-specific pictograms.

Is Leka durable enough for individuals with behavioral challenges?

Durability is our top priority in the development of Leka! We are aware that it could be thrown with force. Its thick casing is made of special plastic that protects its mechanical structure and electronic components. Leka has undergone rigorous durability testing, including being thrown from a height of one meter 10 times in a row and being thrown down stairs—Leka remains intact.

Is Leka dangerous for health?

As with any light-emitting device, caution should be exercised in cases of severe, unstable epilepsy. However, the light effects are subtle and the alternation of lights is minimal. We have not received any reports of seizures during the use of Leka.

Each educational content is designed to adapt to the individual's pace during the session. The sequences within an activity are structured with breaks to review responses or take time to refocus. It is therefore possible to stop using Leka at any time.

The iPad also has the Guided Access feature offered by Apple, which is compatible with the Leka app. This feature allows certain buttons on the interface to be disabled during the activity, preventing the individual from exiting the activity on their own. This helps to control usage and prevent frustration-related crises. Of course, Leka requires adult supervision during its use.

How much does the robot weigh?

The robot is heavy enough not to be mistaken for a ball, but light enough to be easily transported. It weighs approximately 1 kilogram.

How do you charge the robot's battery?

The robot is charged on its induction base. The charge lasts several hours and provides a long battery life.

However, you can place it back on the base after each use without any risk, and it will not damage the equipment.

Other factors can significantly influence the charging time:

  • Positioning of Leka on the base: If Leka is not properly aligned on the base, the two charging coils will not align correctly, causing inefficient charging.
  • Room temperature: Both the charging base and the robot are equipped with a temperature monitoring system that will stop the charging and operation if the temperature becomes too high, to prevent overheating and burns.

Is using a smartphone or tablet required to operate Leka? Can Leka be controlled without the iPad?

No, the robot does not function on its own; it must be controlled via the iPad by an adult or professional. Some activities do not require the person being supported to interact with the tablet, and interactions are done directly with the robot. However, other activities will require the person to observe, listen, and/or respond on the tablet.

The specifics of the Leka app

Does the app work on any digital tablet?

  • The Leka app is only compatible with iPadOS 15.

    We recommend using a relatively recent iPad to benefit from future updates from both Leka and Apple.

    The current version of the iPad is the 9th generation. It is available at Apple or your usual retailer:

    👉 https://www.apple.com/fr/shop/buy-ipad/ipad-10-2

    If your iPad is not compatible with iOS 13 or 14, it is likely from 2016 or earlier (4th generation or older), meaning you've already exceeded its initial lifespan! This may also mean that, from a hardware perspective, there could be Bluetooth compatibility issues with the Leka robot.

    We strive to follow Apple’s updates as closely as possible to benefit from features that, on one hand, make our lives easier, and on the other hand, improve your experience as a user, while ensuring top-level security.

    The new iOS / iPadOS 16, which will be released in October, is compatible with iPads from the 5th generation, which was released in 2017.

    For those with older iPads, we strongly recommend purchasing the current version to take advantage of Apple updates for at least the next five years!

    We have chosen the iPad for several reasons:

    • Quality, durability, and security of the products
    • The quality of the iOS app ecosystem for specialized education
    • The overall quality of the app ecosystem, opening up possibilities for other uses
    • Consistency in screen sizes and interfaces, ensuring a unified user experience (unlike Android, where a multitude of different tablets and versions can be difficult to manage)
    • High-quality development tools

    We are confident that the iPad will meet your needs in the future, whether for Leka or other purposes!

 

Can the app be downloaded on an Android tablet?

The Leka app is only compatible with iPadOS 15.

We recommend using a relatively recent iPad to benefit from future updates from both Leka and Apple.

The current version of the iPad is the 9th generation. It is available at Apple or your usual retailer:

👉 https://www.apple.com/fr/shop/buy-ipad/ipad-10-2

If your iPad is not compatible with iOS 13 or 14, it is likely from 2016 or earlier (4th generation or older), meaning you’ve already more than doubled its initial lifespan! This also means that there may be Bluetooth compatibility issues with the Leka robot from a hardware perspective.

We strive to follow Apple’s updates as closely as possible to benefit from features that, on one hand, make our lives easier, and on the other hand, improve your experience as a user, while ensuring top-level security.

The new iOS / iPadOS 16, which will be released in October, is compatible with iPads from the 5th generation, which was released in 2017.

For owners of older iPads, we strongly recommend purchasing the current version, as it will allow you to take advantage of Apple updates for at least the next five years!

We have chosen the iPad for several reasons:

  • Quality, durability, and security of the products
  • The quality of the iOS app ecosystem for specialized education
  • The overall quality of the app ecosystem, opening up possibilities for other uses
  • Consistency in screen sizes and interfaces, ensuring a unified user experience (unlike Android, where there is a multitude of different tablets and versions that can be difficult to manage)
  • High-quality development tools

We are confident that the iPad will meet your needs in the future, whether for Leka or other purposes!

 

Does the app require a lot of storage space?

The app does not require a lot of storage space, and a budget-friendly iPad model may be sufficient. The important thing is to ensure that the tablet and app can always be updated and that the device is compatible with iPadOS 15.

Is a constant WiFi connection required to use the Leka solution?

The tablet and robot operate via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). WiFi is only needed for regular app updates and the addition of educational content. Therefore, it is entirely possible to use the Leka solution without an internet connection.

Can multiple professionals use Leka in the same facility?

Absolutely! The app allows you to create multiple caregiver profiles as well as numerous profiles for individuals being supported.

Is the app easy to use?

The Leka app is intuitive and user-friendly. It has been designed to make navigation easy for caregivers while offering activity interfaces that are as accessible as possible to suit a wide range of individuals being supported.

Is using a smartphone or tablet required to operate Leka? Can the robot be controlled without the iPad?

No, the robot does not work on its own; it must be controlled via the iPad by a caregiver. Some activities do not require the person being supported to interact with the tablet, and the interactions happen with the robot. However, other activities will require the person to touch the tablet.

Acquiring the Leka solution

Are there any grants or funding options available to help finance Leka?

As a medico-social institution, you can certainly apply for grants to finance your Leka solution. We will provide you with the necessary materials to do so. Organizations such as the Rotary Club or Lions Club have already funded this type of project. Additionally, Leka aligns perfectly with the ARS (Regional Health Agencies) initiatives to equip institutions with digital tools, so you can use this as an argument.

Currently, the Leka solution cannot be reimbursed by health organizations, but we are in discussions with these stakeholders and will keep you informed of any developments.

 

What does the Leka offer include?

  • A Leka robot with its charging base
  • A set of 60 magic cardsAccess to the app containing educational content
  • Up to 100 caregiver profiles on the app
  • Up to 100 profiles of individuals being supportedPlease note that the iPad is not included in the box. We recommend using a relatively recent iPad to ensure compatibility with our future updates as well as those from Apple.

Please note that the iPad is not included in the box. We recommend using a relatively recent iPad to ensure compatibility with our future updates as well as those from Apple.