I can't figure out how to access the search function on my IPAD. When I swipe down from the middle of the home screen as instructed, I get notifications, not the search function.

To access the Search function...

From any Home Screen, swipe downwards from any empty area of the screen except the corners of extreme edges of the screen. This will expose the Search dialogue at the top of the screen.

You must not swipe from the edge of the screen.

Swipe lower.

While on the Home screen, place your finger near the very center ( the middle ) of your iPad's screen and do a quick swipe downward.