Players are encouraged and incentivized to continue the training process at home. Every child, like each of us, has preferences on how they approach self-improvement. Some are highly competitive and live to play and win, while others are less competitive but are energized by studying and helping others improve their game. Most are a mix of both, but regardless of where any player finds themselves on this spectrum, independent study and practice are critical to success in any venture, and chess is no exception.
I have spent a great deal of time over the years researching and experimenting with what’s available to help chess players train at home, and the list that follows is what I have found works best for me and my students. It is certainly not exhaustive, and what works for one person may not work for another. I am happy to work with anyone to help identify the best self-study program for them. New products are coming out all the time, so my research will be ongoing, and this list will be updated regularly.
United States Chess Federation (USCF) Premium Scholastic Membership – Membership in the US Chess Federation is a must for anyone serious about playing and improving their game. Membership benefits include discounts on USCF products and services, including their phenomenal online store, access to USCF events and the ability to earn internationally recognized chess ratings and discounts on third-party products and services (specifically Chess Magnet School membership). A Premium Scholastic Membership is available for $ 24 per year for children 12 years-old and younger, and includes a 12-month membership in the USCF and a 12-month subscription to “Chess Life for Kids”. Chess Life for Kids is published six times per year, and is an invaluable source of helpful information that children can understand and enjoy. I enjoy it too, and frequently use examples from it in my teaching.
Click USCF to go to the USCF website.
Click USCF Membership to purchase a membership.
Online Media
ChessKid.com
ChessKid.com is the premier online venue where children can learn and play chess in a safe and appropriate environment. Basic playing membership is free, and a paid “Gold Membership” is an unbelievable bargain at $ 49 per year (they frequently run specials where discounted Gold Memberships are available for children and parents are free). Once you register your student, by selecting “Edit Kid” followed by “Edit Guardianship” you can designate me as an “Additional Guardian” by entering my email, mhedman@excelsiorchess.com, thereby enabling me to add your child as a member of the “Excelsior Chess Club” and the specific club associated with their school. As members of Excelsior Chess’ family of clubs on ChessKid your student can earn extra credit and special recognition for completing the hundreds of structured online lessons as well as for playing me and other students. My user id is “QuigglyDownUnder”.
Think Like a King
International Chess School
