Welcome to NILD New Zealand
The first Educational Therapy of its kind in New Zealand.
Our Story
Supporting Learning Through Insight, Structure, and Care
NILD New Zealand was established to support children who learn differently and to help families better understand how learning develops. Built on the principles of the National Institute for Learning Development (NILD®), which originated in the United States over 40 years ago, my work is grounded in decades of research, which has been recently updated, and practical experience in educational therapy.
I believe that learning difficulties do not define a child’s potential. Through personalised, one-to-one support, we focus on strengthening the underlying cognitive skills that support learning, confidence, and independence. My approach values collaboration with parents, schools, and other professionals, ensuring that each learner is supported holistically and with care. Over time, this partnership-led approach helps children grow not only academically, but also in resilience, self-belief, and their enjoyment of learning.
15
Years of teaching experience
100s
of Satisfied clients
100s
of bespoke interventions created.
Our Process
Steps to Your Tailored Educational Plan
1. Consult
I begin with a personalised consultation to understand your child’s learning profile, strengths, and challenges. This initial conversation allows me to listen carefully to your concerns, gather relevant background information, and discuss your goals for your child. Where appropriate, I may also review school feedback or reports to build a clear and holistic picture.
2. Design
Using the information gathered, I design a tailored educational therapy plan that targets your child’s specific learning needs. This plan draws on NILD® principles and evidence-based strategies to strengthen underlying cognitive skills. Each plan is individualised, flexible, and designed to support meaningful progress over time, with clear goals and a supportive structure.
3. Support, Review
Therapy sessions are delivered one-to-one in a supportive, encouraging environment. Progress is monitored regularly, and the programme is adjusted as your child grows and develops. I work collaboratively with families—and where appropriate, schools—to ensure learning strategies transfer beyond sessions and into everyday learning and classroom contexts.
The Goal
My Mission
My mission is to support children and young people to reach their full learning potential by strengthening literacy, cognitive skills, building confidence, and fostering a love of learning through evidence-based educational therapy. I work in partnership with families, schools, and professionals to provide personalised, holistic support that empowers learners to thrive academically and in life.
The Outlook
My Vision
My vision is a future where every learner is understood, supported, and equipped with the skills they need to succeed—regardless of learning needs. NILD New Zealand aims to be a trusted leader in educational therapy, transforming learning and reading experiences and helping children develop lifelong confidence, independence, and resilience.
The Team
More About Me
Elana Peebles
Founder – NILD New Zealand
I am a passionate learning support specialist and qualified teacher with over a decade of experience working alongside children and young people with diverse learning needs in New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and Zimbabwe. I hold a Master’s degree in Special Educational Needs and have specialised training in areas including dyslexia, ADHD, autism, and developmental coordination difficulties. My background includes both classroom teaching and leadership roles, most recently as Head of Curriculum Support, where I worked closely with whānau, teachers, and external professionals to design inclusive, strengths-based learning pathways.
My approach is relational, compassionate, and evidence-informed. I am trained in National Institute for Learning Development (NILD) educational therapy and am currently updating my qualification to align with current research and best practice, with a particular focus on culturally responsive approaches within the Aotearoa New Zealand context. I am passionate about helping learners understand how they learn, build confidence, and experience success in ways that feel meaningful and sustainable.
At the heart of my work is a belief that every learner deserves to feel capable, supported, and understood. I work alongside families to demystify learning differences and provide practical, personalised support that empowers both learners and those who support them. I’m known for my calm, encouraging manner and my ability to build strong, trusting relationships with children, parents, and educators alike.o.
Giving Back
Community Involvement
We believe in supporting our wider community and giving back through meaningful connections with families, schools, and local organisations. This includes working collaboratively with educators, sharing knowledge about learning development, and advocating for children who need additional support. Through professional partnerships, parent education, and community engagement, we are committed to strengthening understanding around learning differences and making a positive, lasting impact on the lives of children and those who support them.
Ready to give your child the gift of educational therapy they deserve?
Contact me today to schedule a consultation or to learn more about my services.