Shishu Vihar

Win the world with Love

Swami Swaroopananda

What is Shishu Vihar ?

Shishu Vihar is Chinmaya Mission’s programme for infants and toddlers facilitating early introduction to spiritual education by focusing on imparting values and culture in a fun, engaging, and age-appropriate way. Classes follow a modern structure of playgroups where babies and toddlers, accompanied by one or both parents, learn through simple stories from the Scriptures.

They sing bhajans and nursery rhymes, play games to develop motor skills and participate in arts and crafts that foster social sharing and belonging in an atmosphere of positivity and love.

Shishu Vihar concept

The concept of Shishu Vihar has been implemented in centres around the world through the vision of Swamini Supriyananda, a psychologist by profession.

She first implemented Shishu Vihar in Hong Kong. She says, “The little ones have strong retentive power and are quick to learn.
The double benefit of mothers and fathers also learning is that the rhymes and stories get strongly embedded in the minds of the children. Even 3-year-old children can chant the Hanuman Chalisa!”

Shishu Vihar aids the growth of a child aged 1-5 to help form a spiritual and moral foundation that will always stay with them.

Power of early impressions

Sowing the seeds of a happy life

Early Spiritual Seeds

Indian tradition emphasizes instilling values in children early, even prenatally. Swami Chinmayananda's childhood association with Kerala saint Chettampi Swamigal exemplifies this. As an infant, he was exposed to sacred murmurs, nurturing spirituality. Modern psychology confirms 50% of brain neuropaths form by age 3—ideal for spiritual introduction.

Shishu Vihar Impact

Shishu Vihar is designed to provide spiritual ambiance in a gentle, fun, child-friendly environment.

Accompanying parents or guardians participate and then take the rhymes and stories home and enjoy reading and singing them with their children and extended family so that the values are shared and reinforced.
“Shishu Vihar is all about combining fun and interaction with values and wisdom that the kids will develop as they grow. It is a wonderful bonding time for the parents and their toddlers.”