Homeschooling

For some parents the decision to home school can be a huge relief, whilst for others it can feel like a decision they have not chosen to make. 

Mokopuna with pervasive demand avoidance autism are more likely to benefit from home schooling where they can be more in control of the number of demands they are placed under. Similarly for those children who are struggling with school distress due to the overwhelming sensory overwhelm or cognitive demand of school it can be a great alternative. 

Mokopuna must be enrolled in school from the age of 6. If you wish to home school your child you must apply for an exemption from school. The exemption application form is very in depth and will require significant preparation, time and effort. 

You can choose what method and methodology you wish to teach from but you must be able to show how this links to the New Zealand Curriculum within your application. Additionally you must also be able to explain how your child will achieve a secondary school qualification and pursue higher education. 

Many support organisations exist for home school parents. Some of these are listed below.

If you are considering home schooling, the best place to look to understand the exemption process is on the Ministry of Education's website: Ministry of Education Information Page

This is a very in depth page and has many helpful links on navigating the home school exemption process. 

Facebook and Support Groups for Home Schoolers

Home School Associations:

Support with Home School Applications