MENTAL BENEFITS OF CHESS AND CHILDREN

1. MENTAL BENEFITS OF CHESS AND CHILDREN The game of chess has been played for over a thousand years, yet it has recently experienced a surge in popularity among children who are intrigued by the strategic thinking it involves. For this reason, families can now find chess being offered by summer schools and after school programs that recognize the positive effects playing the game can have for every area of a child’s life. In addition to being an enjoyable way to spend the afternoon, mental benefits of chess play a role in a child’s academic and personal success. IMPROVES CONCENTRATION AND MEMORY To play the game of chess well, it is necessary for a child to focus intensely on the board while considering every possible effect of making a single move. Chess competitions can also continue for several hours with each player participating in several rounds. This type of serious concentration builds a child’s attention span while strengthening their memory skills. FOSTERS CREATIVITY AND CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS

2. The “if-then” type of reasoning that chess requires encourages kids to think about every possible alternative for making a move. As kids begin to think outside of the box, they develop creativity along with the ability to thoroughly analyze a situation. This type of thinking can transfer into the classroom by enhancing their reading and mathematical abilities. PROMOTES SELF-CONTROL In the game of chess, thinking before acting is strongly rewarded. It also takes hours of practice for a child to hone their skills. During a competition, children learn that the first move they consider is often not the best one, which can also help them learn to practice restraint in other situations. INCREASES SELF-CONFIDENCE When a child sits down across from an opponent, they know that only they can decide the outcome of a game. Chess also levels the playing field among children of all abilities since they can increase their skills by simply studying the game and practicing their moves. As a child progresses in their knowledge, their self-confidence naturally increases with each successful move. Chess may require intense concentration, but children also find that the game offers a chance for relaxation as they socialize with others who enjoy strengthening their reasoning skills. From improved memory skills to a boost in self-confidence, the mental benefits offered by chess have made it a favorite game among both parents and their children.