Netflix’s top-rated series The Queen’s Gambit has reignited interest in chess and the game’s popularity has surged once again. For many parents who have watched chess prodigy Beth Harmon win many a tournament, they couldn’t help but wish their little one could possess the main character’s talent and tactics.
Here’s some good news: chess is a game for all ages. So yes, even kids will enjoy playing this game. Aside from the fun it brings, playing chess also has many benefits for your little one.
It wouldn't be difficult to encourage them to play this classic game because of these reasons:
1. The rules are easy to learn.
One of the most common misconceptions about chess is that it’s difficult to understand. But those who are familiar with the game can say that children will have an easy time learning and grasping the basics if they are properly guided. It wouldn’t take long for them to start playing—and eventually enjoying—it.
2. It’s a good bonding activity.
Use this opportunity to create a solid bond with your child. If you know the game, be the one to teach them the basics. Be their playmate and challenge their skills. Remember that a shared interest is a recipe for a closer relationship.
3. It encourages strategic thinking.
Once you know the rules of the game, it then requires you to strategize to be able to win. The more your kids play it, the more they’ll be able to hone their deep thinking and problem-solving skills. Some kids are even able to beat their adult opponents.
4. It gives their brain a rigorous workout.
Hence, it’s been said that it makes kids smarter. A child who plays chess has to create a plan, make a series of decisions, and use logic to make such choices. Aren’t all of these good for their brain?
5. Chess can improve their social skills too.
This game teaches players to remain quiet and be respectful of their opponents. You can’t just storm out of a game and flip the chessboard or distract the other player while thinking of their next move. Imagine teaching your kid this kind of discipline!
6. It offers a rewarding experience.
Kids love to have a rewarding experience and that includes playing a game that challenges them and gives them satisfaction through healthy competitions. While some chess games last for an hour or more, it’s the feeling of either beating an opponent or lasting till the end that makes it worth it.
If you think your child can benefit from learning how to play chess and you want a leveled-up approach for him, here are some classes and resources that can hone your future chess champion:
Legacy Chess Philippines offers lessons for different age groups. It’s a classroom-type of learning, and you can choose whether it’s a one-on-one or a group lesson. Topics will depend on what chess level the students are in.
- Legacy Chess Philippines Online Chess Lessons for Beginners (5 to 10 years old)
- Legacy Chess Philippines Online Chess Lessons for Kids (11 to 15 years old)
- Legacy Chess Philippines Online Chess Lessons (16 to 20 years old)
Not keen on getting a chess tutor or enrolling your child in a formal chess school? Start by visiting chess.com instead. They offer chess tutorials, from basic to advanced. Your kid can also explore playing against someone. Just make sure to supervise them, or much better, learn with them.
This site offers online chess tutorial for beginners, professionals, and yes, children. Its mission is to popularize chess as a game and personal development tool.
