Could I get suggestions for Chess instruction?

[Wendy in ME]

My 12yo loves chess and my 10yo wants to but I have no idea how to help him. I only know the very basics. My 12yo could also use some strategy help. Dh got them a beautiful new set for Christmas so the HS mom in be is thinking, "how can I make this a learning opportunity?":001_smile:

[Jen3boys]

My dc have enjoyed www.chesskids.com

[Pam in MA]

I know there are definite methods for teaching chess. I believe you start with some of the pieces and practice certain strategies. I know there are lots of books and teaching aids out there to help you, as well as computer programs such as Fritz and Chessmaster. You also could see if there's a local chess club around; they often have instruction for kids. You know, future grand masters!

[elegantlion]

My dc have enjoyed www.chesskids.com (http://www.chesskids.com)

Thanks for that, my ds loves chess as well.

[jacqui in mo]

check out this No Stress Chess game on Amazon. I know you already have a chess board but this looks very helpful. Amazon also has some chess strategy books for kids. http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss__4_9?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=no+stress+chess+-+winning+moves&sprefix=no+stress

[Kathie in VA]

We received Chessmaster from a friend and WOW this is a great program. It has lessons in the 'classroom' which are each followed by some exercises. It also offers a place to play chess games against other characters in the system; and they progress thru them as they get better. You can even play in a tournament against these characters and receive a 'chess rating'. The look of the board can also be adjusted, for fun. The lessons start at the very beginning and progress to master level (I think). It can even go online to play with others but we haven't done that portion yet.

We also try to get out 2x a month to the local homeschool chess club.

HTH

[Kimber]

We own no stress guess. It was a hit here, but my kids tired of following the cards. Pretty soon, they were able to move on to playing without them.

Kimberly

[siloam]

My 12yo loves chess and my 10yo wants to but I have no idea how to help him. I only know the very basics. My 12yo could also use some strategy help. Dh got them a beautiful new set for Christmas so the HS mom in be is thinking, "how can I make this a learning opportunity?":001_smile:

Winter Promise has two programs, one for younger kids and one for older kids.

Heather

[jubilee]

We have No Stress Chess and found it at a local Toys R Us. The price was reasonable: <$12, I believe. I am not sure if this would be too "young" for your 10yr.

I also recommend looking up local Chess Clubs: library, community center, retirement homes. I am not sure how pracitical it would be to get him out of the house for this or what your schedule looks like. Maybe just playing the game to get beyond the basics and learn more strategy.

[Crimson Wife]

Winter Promise has two programs, one for younger kids and one for older kids.

I tried the "Knights of the Square Table: First Moves" with my K5 student last year. She liked the DK book and the "Story of Chess" book that came with the program but did not care much for the actual curriculum. She learned the very basics of how the pieces moved but then got bored with all the tactics it was trying to teach her. So I ended up shelving it. Maybe I'll try again next year...

[Sandra in FL]

the local library.

HTH,
Sandra

[PollyOR]

I like Usborne's Starting Chess (http://shop.edcpub.com/ProductDetails.aspx?pid=100363).

[Wendy in ME]

Thanks for all of the ideas. I have wondered about the WP sets because they seem like they might be somewhat like a more structured elective class.

[Another Lynn]

Chessmaster, hands down. Fritz and Chester is fun, but Chessmaster is the whole package. I think it's 10 edition unless there's a newer one out.