We all know that children have enormous learning potential! In their early years, they are capable of learning numerous languages and a variety of physical skills. Moreover, children enjoy playing games.
Some children can begin learning chess as young as two years old. The idea is to teach them in a child-centred manner instead of using methods designed for adults or schoolchildren.
How to start teaching your child the game of chess
Don’t rush! Chess is a game with billions of possible outcomes and several rules. Therefore, avoid overloading your children with information. Teach your child at the appropriate pace for them. This rate will vary from child to child, so parents must be attentive to the subtle signs that their children are prepared to move on to the next topic.
Invest in a cost-effective and sturdy set for your child over an expensive wooden chess set. Purchase a set with large, durable plastic pieces that allow your child to explore all of the board’s complexities.
Instead of rushing through what all chess pieces are, divide lessons into portions and isolate the game’s components.
The academic benefits of chess for children
According to research, children do better in school when they play chess.
- Chess teaches children numerous fundamentals, including problem-solving, concentration, patience, and persistence.
- Studies indicate that chess helps children improve their test scores in various topics, including arithmetic, science, and reading.
- Not only do children who play chess have a higher IQ, but they are also more creative, which is beneficial in every academic subject.
- Numerous children struggle to concentrate on a single task for an extended period. Individual chess sessions for children are ideal for developing a child’s attention span.
The social benefits of chess for children
Chess is not just an academically beneficial game but also a highly sociable one.
- Children learn to be patient and to wait for the opponent’s move.
- Chess teaches children how to deal with defeat, a crucial life skill that prepares them for school and social contact with their peers.
