Why is it a good idea to open chess clubs in schools?
Chess clubs have recently become popular in schools. More and more schools understand the added value of hosting a chess club, and many parents are asking their children’s schools to open a chess club.
But why? What are the benefits of having a chess club at your school? Is it good for anyone? Any age? Any academic level?
Academic benefits of chess
Chess offers many academic benefits. Research and studies have shown a direct connection between playing chess and analytic skills development. Chess helps children develop focus, concentration and observation skills. Children learn that if they don’t watch what is happening, they won’t be able to respond to it, no matter how smart they are. Careful observation also helps children learn to strategize and plan ahead.
Beyond academic skills, chess helps children develop social skills, learn to respect their opponents, learn how to handle defeat, and develop teamwork skills as they compete together as a school team against other schools.
Is chess good for any age?
While every child is different, most children can pick up the basics of chess by the time they are five or six years old. We don’t recommend that you push your child to learn against his or her will; however, if your child is interested in learning, it doesn’t matter how old he or she is.
Teaching chess to children has to be done in a fun way. Teachers should be professional chess coaches who have experience with children and know how to give each child attention based on his or her needs.
When a school starts a chess club, they must make sure to choose expert chess coaches who have experience teaching chess to children of any age and at any level and who know how to do so in a fun, light and easy way.
To learn more about chess clubs in schools click HERE.