Early Literacy & Parenting Educator | Advocate for Play, Creativity, and Belonging
Meet Sophie Rayner-Grignon (RECE)
Sophie (she/they) is a queer, creative educator with over a decade of experience as a Registered ECE. She lives and works on the unceded territory of the Algonquin Peoples in Ottawa, ON.
Her journey began with babysitting and volunteering in a special needs program in Japan. Her experiences inspired her to pursue Early Childhood Education at Algonquin College, where she graduated with honours in 2014.
Since then, Sophie has dedicated her career to supporting young parents, infants, and toddlers in nonprofit childcare settings. Her approach centers around intentional play, curiosity, and connection — seeing every interaction as a chance to nurture trust, joy, and learning.
Sophie’s purpose in early childhood education is to help families and educators build real connections. She believes learning happens best when everyone feels safe, understood, and included. Through play, literacy, and creativity, she works to create spaces where children can thrive and caregivers feel confident in their role.
sophie's ECE "Why"
“Every child and family deserves to feel seen, supported, and valued.”
In Conversation with Sophie
Sophie’s creativity shines through her work and her life. Whether she's building a sensory play experience, curating diverse children’s books, or connecting with families through laughter and empathy.
A few fun facts
Community & cat lover
Sophie is a loving spouse, cat caregiver, and active neighbor and volunteer in her cooperative housing community
Creativity in everything
From tattoos to teaching, Sophie brings art and heart to it all
Favourite downtime activity
As a book lover, story time with children always wins!