SHOULD YOUR CHILD COMPETE IN CHESS TOURNAMENTS

1. SHOULD YOUR CHILD COMPETE IN CHESS TOURNAMENTS? Chess tournaments have gained popularity with kids who are eager to show off the skills they have been learning during practice. However, it is natural to be concerned as a parent about exposing your kid to the pressure of competition. While chess can get intense, tournaments designed for kids are planned to be enjoyable events that build confidence among players of all ages and abilities. BENEFITS OF COMPETING IN CHESS TOURNAMENTS Unlike many other sports, chess tournaments are typically played in rounds. This means that a child may lose one round and go on to win another. At the end of the event, points are tallied up for each round to declare the final winners. This process teaches kids to recover from losses quickly because victory is waiting just around the corner. Kids also benefit from being in a friendly environment that welcomes everyone from advanced players to beginners. ASK THEIR COACH ABOUT READINESS For many kids, summer camp is the place they first learn to play chess since it gives them the time they need to practice. To assess your child’s ability to benefit from playing in a tournament, talk to their coach about their level of skills. Most likely, you will find that as long as your child understands the basic rules of the game, their coach will encourage competitive play. This is because playing with new people will strengthen the skills they are learning in chess class. PREPARE YOUR CHILD FOR THEIR FIRST COMPETITION Most basic level chess tournaments for kids are single day events but your child should be prepared to play for most of the day. Make sure he or she gets plenty of rest the night before the competition and talk to them about how they will play in rounds. Competitors are also usually matched to players of the same level of ability so build your child’s confidence by letting them know they will be playing with their peers. The thrill of playing in their first chess tournament is one feeling that your child will never forget. Whether they win or lose, kids will learn powerful lessons regarding the game of chess and good sportsmanship. After talking to their coach, go ahead and sign them up for the next chess tournament, and get ready to watch their skills take off.