Starting Kindergarten is a Big Moment.
For children, it can bring excitement, curiosity, and sometimes a few nervous feelings, too. For families, it is often filled with questions, hopes, and the quiet realization that a new chapter is beginning.
At the Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB), we want families to know something important from the very beginning: your child will be welcomed, cared for, and known here.
That spirit of welcome was at the heart of a very special celebration held at OCSB’s St. Anne School to launch A Place to Belong, a new children’s book created to help children and families feel ready and excited for Kindergarten. The morning was filled with laughter, music, storytelling, and creativity as students, staff, and guests gathered together to celebrate a story rooted in belonging, connection, and Catholic community.
A Story Children Can See Themselves In
Kindergarten students took part in a special read-aloud with Governor General’s Award-winning author Caroline Pignat, an OCSB graduate and current staff member, alongside her father, acclaimed illustrator Alan Cranny.
Mr. Cranny has worked with internationally recognized companies, including Disney and Universal Studios, bringing decades of artistic experience and storytelling to the project. His illustrations helped create a warm and engaging world that children could immediately connect with.
As students listened closely, smiled at familiar Kindergarten moments, and eagerly reacted to the illustrations, it was clear this was more than simply reading a book. Children were seeing themselves reflected in the story.
Through playful classroom experiences, new friendships, learning routines, and small moments of courage, A Place to Belong gently introduces children to what starting school can feel like. Most importantly, it helps children understand that Kindergarten is not just a place to learn. It is a place where they belong.
Created With Families in Mind
Beginning school can feel emotional for families, too. That is one of the reasons this project was created. A Place to Belong was designed to help ease the transition into Kindergarten by creating opportunities for families to talk together about school before the first day even arrives. The book includes conversation starters and simple ways families can help children feel confident, comfortable, and excited about starting school.
The story reflects the caring and welcoming environments families will find throughout OCSB schools, where relationships, kindness, faith, and student well-being are at the centre of school life.
Students Helped Bring the Book to Life
One of the most joyful parts of the project was the involvement of students from St. Anne School, who contributed artwork featured in a special section of the book.
Students were excited to see their creativity featured in a published story that will now be shared with future Kindergarten families across the OCSB. Their contributions added an extra layer of warmth and authenticity to the project, helping create a book that truly feels connected to student voice and community.
The collaboration between Ms. Pignat and her father also gave the story special meaning. As both an OCSB graduate and employee, Ms. Pignat understands firsthand the importance of helping children and families feel welcomed and supported during important transitions. Combined with Mr. Cranny’s illustrations, the result is a story families can return to again and again.
Building Bridges Through Belonging
Our Spiritual Theme, Open Doors, Build Bridges, Nourish New Beginnings, reminds us that building bridges often begins with simple acts of welcome.
A Place to Belong is one example of how the OCSB continues to create meaningful connections with families before children even enter the classroom. It reflects our commitment to ensuring students feel seen, valued, and supported as they begin their learning journey.
The project also reflects our Strategic Commitments to Be Community, Be Well, and Be Innovative by supporting student well-being, strengthening family connections, and finding creative ways to help children transition into school with confidence.
Watch the Story Come to Life
Watch highlights from the launch of A Place to Belong and hear more about the inspiration behind the book.
Register for Kindergarten
Families who register for Kindergarten at the OCSB will receive a copy of A Place to Belong, helping children and families begin this exciting new chapter together. Kindergarten registration remains open. Families can learn more about the program and register online at ocsb.ca/kindergarten.
