Growing together before school begins
Your child’s formal educational journey begins in kindergarten, but there are many opportunities to help your little one feel prepared and excited about that first day of school. They can start exploring as early as they’re born! The Ottawa Catholic School Board invites all new families to enjoy the high quality and diverse programs we offer for the early years. Give your child the best possible start. Join our school community early and let’s grow together.
EarlyON drop-in centres (0-6 years)
Visit one of our five EarlyOn Centres to help prepare your child for school. The play-based drop-in environment lets children and their parents focus on literacy, numeracy, and school readiness. It’s also a great way to meet other members of your community, learn about community resources, and get acquainted with the school facility. The programs are free and a light snack is provided.
Visit a preschool resource program (birth to 6 years)
Visit one of two preschool resource programs in the city (Orleans and Kanata locations) to take advantage of a caring relaxed atmosphere for parents and children. These programs offer a toy and resource library with a large selection of toys, books and videos available for loan and daytime training and evening workshops. Their experienced, professional staff are also available to offer support to parents with concerns about their child’s development.
Join a toddler, preschool, or school-age program
There are a wide variety of child care options in our OCSB school facilities. These programs offer a warm, caring and secure environment where children can learn through play in your very own community school. Register early with the City of Ottawa’s Centralized Waiting List if you are considering using any of the following child care options. You can register as soon as your child is born.
- Toddler programs (18 months to 30 months)
- Preschool programs (2.5 years to 4.8 years)
- School age programs (4 years to 12 years)
City of Ottawa Child Care Registry and Waitlist
The City of Ottawa manages the Registry and Waiting List for licensed child care programs and extended day programs. The Registry was developed to improve access to programs for parents seeking child care.
Parents seeking care at any of our child care programs and extended day programs are required to register with CCRAW.
The OCSB Birthday Club
Register your child for our Birthday Club and, during the month of their birthday, your child will receive a birthday card containing an activity that the two of you can do together. This club is for children aged 0 to 4 who are not yet enrolled in school. All cards are sent via Canada Post, so your child gets to experience the fun of receiving “real” mail addressed to them!