The phrase "small ladle" refers to a small spoon with a long handle that is used for dipping and serving small amounts of liquid or sauce. Full definition
Using a small ladle or scoop, pour about 1/4 cup (60 ml) of pancake batter onto the hot pan, spacing the pancakes a few inches apart. (joyofbaking.com)
Make sure the pan is hot before adding your first crépe, and then ladle in about a quarter of the batter (I use a smaller ladle) and rotate the pan to coat the base of the pan in batter. (occasionallyeggs.com)