Hi there, I’m Mrs. Ritz, the creator and educator behind The Reading Seed!

I created The Reading Seed to support young learners in building strong, confident reading foundations in a calm and encouraging environment. Every child learns at their own pace, and sometimes they simply need a little extra time, guidance, and support to truly grow!

Through small group online sessions and personalized one-on-one tutoring, I focus on the foundational skills that help children become successful readers, all while keeping learning engaging, interactive, and positive.

My goal is not only to help children learn to read, but to help them feel proud of their progress and confident in themselves as learners! ✻

My passion for learning began early in life, even if I didn’t fully recognize it at the time!

My mom was a kindergarten teacher for over 25 years, and she was also my own teacher. She was always so warm and gentle, and the way she supported and cared for her students left a lasting impression on me. She has always been my role model, and so much of how I teach and support children today comes from her.

Growing up, learning didn’t always come easily to me. I remember feeling frustrated at times, and even questioning myself or my abilities. But over time, with the right support and learning in ways that worked for me, I began to see that learning could actually be engaging, enjoyable, and something I could succeed in.

That experience shaped the way I view learning! I understand how important it is for children to feel supported, encouraged, and never made to feel “less than” as they grow their skills.

In many ways, my mom planted the seed, and my own journey helped it grow!

Today, that continues to guide how I support young learners, with patience, encouragement, and a focus on building both skills and confidence! ✻

I believe children learn best when they feel comfortable, supported, and encouraged.

Learning to read can sometimes feel overwhelming for young learners, especially if they are feeling unsure of themselves. My goal is to create a positive environment where children feel safe to try, make mistakes, and build confidence in their abilities.

At The Reading Seed, each lesson is designed to be engaging, supportive, and developmentally appropriate. We focus on building strong literacy foundations through meaningful, interactive activities that support skills like letter recognition, sound awareness, blending, early reading, and comprehension.

Just like plants grow step by step, reading skills develop over time. Every child grows at their own pace, and my role is to guide and support that growth in a way that feels encouraging, achievable, and positive!✻

- Mrs. Ritz

I hold an Early Childhood Education Diploma with Honours from St. Lawrence College in Kingston, Ontario, and have over 3 years of experience working with children from infancy through the early elementary years.

Through over 650 hours of field placement, I worked with infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergarten students, building a strong foundation in early childhood development and learning.

In addition to my placements, I have also gained hands-on experience working with school-aged children in Kindergarten to Grade 3. In these settings, I have supported a wide range of learning needs, abilities, and behaviours, strengthening my ability to adapt my approach to best support each individual child.

I currently work as a casual Educational Assistant, where I support students in classroom settings and help children build confidence, independence, and positive learning habits.

I have also completed additional training in behaviour support and early literacy, including learning differences such as dyslexia. This allows me to provide patient, individualized support that meets each child where they are.

I have been accepted to the University of New Brunswick to continue my studies in Early Childhood Education through a Bachelor of Education program, further expanding my knowledge and practice.

In addition, I previously completed a Business Administration diploma from Conestoga College. This background has helped me build The Reading Seed as a structured and professional program, with thoughtful planning, clear communication, and an organized experience for families! ✻

I am originally from Ontario, but through my husband’s military career, we have had the opportunity to live in a few different places across Canada. After spending some time in Alberta, we moved to New Brunswick in 2021. My husband is originally from the Maritimes, and after living here, I completely understand why he loves it so much. The ocean, the nature, and the slower pace of life quickly made it feel like home, and I know it is where I hope to stay long term!

Growing up, my dad had incredible gardens and a deep knowledge of plants, and I was always surrounded by what felt like little masterpieces he created in the yard! He also had a habit of coming up with new renovation or project ideas anytime my brothers and I had free time on weekends or during the summer.

While my brothers were usually the ones actually building and helping, I liked to think of myself as more of a supervisor or cheerleader, there to keep them company. But if there was one thing I truly loved helping with, it was the garden, even if that mostly meant standing there with the hose, probably overwatering my dad’s flowers!

Even now, not much has changed. My favourite part of gardening is still watering, and I could easily spend hours doing it. I’ve always loved being around water, even if it’s coming out of a hose, and my husband can definitely testify to that. He’s usually the one who has to come turn the hose off because I’d stay out there all day!

Spending that time outside with my dad is where my own love for gardening began, and it’s something that has stayed with me ever since ✻

That connection to nature also became part of the inspiration behind The Reading Seed. Just like plants grow with the right care and environment, children grow in their learning when they are given patience, encouragement, and support.

During the summer, I love spending time at the beach and am usually the last one to get out of the water.

At home, life is usually calm and quiet, though my three cats and Shetland Sheepdog definitely bring their own personalities and energy into the mix. Animals have always been a big part of my life, and someday I would love to have a small hobby farm of my own!

I am also a creative person and enjoy painting in my free time. Creativity and curiosity are things I love encouraging in children as well, and I enjoy bringing that same sense of exploration into learning whenever I can.

These parts of my life shape the way I teach, creating a learning environment that feels calm, supportive, and encouraging for every child! ✻