Chess Lessons for Kids

I want the class to be a fun and engaging place for young learners to experience chess. This course will teach something new to everyone, whether they are new to the game or have been playing for a while. 

In this class, I'll cover basic chess strategies and tactics, common checkmating patterns, and solving chess puzzles. Chess puzzles are an excellent way to build strength through repetition, and experienced pros often cite them as key study methods. 

The online chess platform we will use for this class is Lichess.org. You don't need an account to access the website.

Topics covered in this class include the following:

Checkmates

• Basic Checkmates
• Recognizing Checkmate Patterns
•Challenging Checkmates
• Knight & Bishop Mate

Basic Tactics

• The Pin
• The Skewer
• The Fork
• Discovered Attacks
• Double-Check

Intermediate Tactics

• Zugzwang
• Interference
• Greek Gift
• Deflection
• Attraction
• Underpromotion
• Desperado
• Counter-Check
• Undermining
• Clearance

Pawn Endgames

• Key Squares
• Opposition
• 7th-Rank Rook Pawn

Rook Endgames

• Basic Rook Endgames
• Intermediate Rook Endings
• Practical Rook Endings


Fundamentals of Chess

•Center control

Controlling the center of the board gives your pieces more mobility and options for attack. 

•Pawn structure

Understanding the pawns' position is important because it affects other strategic concepts, like piece activity and attack plans. 

•Endgame technique

Being familiar with key endgame positions, checkmating patterns, and pawn endgames can help you win when the board is empty. 

•King safety

Keeping your king safe is vital in the opening because a weakened king can lead to quick losses. 

•Taking advantage of your opponent's weaknesses

Look for weaknesses in your opponent's position, like doubled pawns, isolated pawns, or a weak castle. 

•Tactical skill

Tactical skill is a key component of chess ability for all players, from beginners to champions.