From first session to first competition: how children progress in chess

Every child moves at their own pace, but the path usually looks like this. This is a general picture, not the story of one particular child.

The first weeks: learning the basics, the rules of the session and how to train safely with others. Many children are shy at first and settle within a few sessions.

The first months: the basics of openings, tactics and endgames become steadier, and the coach starts to set small goals.

After that: children who keep training often take part in inter-house or inter-school events, and some go on to district or zonal competitions when the coach feels they are ready.

Along the way, parents usually notice more than sporting skill: better focus, patience, and the confidence to try again after a mistake.

The chess academy at Mayo International School in Patparganj is open to children from other schools as well as Mayo students. Sessions run before and after school hours, the first session is a free trial, and school transport is available — ask the office about your stop. Book a trial on the academy page: /chess-academy-in-east-delhi