A structured program of learning and playing chess for kids in kindergarten through 6^th grade.
Saturday Mornings from 10:00 until 11:30am.

Click here for the 2010 - 2011 schedule.

The Center invites children from kindergarten through sixth grade to the Center for fun-filled mornings of chess. Our program divides the kids by age and ability so that none are bored, and none are intimidated. All kids from absolute beginners to advanced players are welcome. Children come from the suburbs and the city. We try to maintain a teacher to student ratio of about 1:10.

There are three general groups of students each week. In one room, students learning the rules play games and receive lessons to develop their skills. In another room, those who know the rules play games and receive lessons about the strategy of chess. We also have a small group of children who are experienced in adult tournament play who are given advanced training and have the opportunity to compete with other, similarly situated youngsters.

Chess is fun, and playing the game teaches responsibility, improves discipline, and sharpens thinking skills. It also builds confidence and helps young people make new friends.

The program is run by chess masters and experts with experience teaching young people to play chess. Most of each day is devoted to playing, practicing and reinforcing the lessons of the day. Each player receives plenty of individual attention. This is not a drop-in club. This is a class. Students who arrive late disrupt the class and those who are habitually tardy will be asked not to return.

Park for free underground.

Students register for 4-week sessions. The fees for each four-week session are $30 for members of the U.S. Chess Center, $50 for non-members. Center membership dues are $60 per year. Partial scholarships are available for all who need them.

The Center runs tournaments periodically for all ages and strengths of players. Check our schedule to see which Saturdays we begin a new session and on which Saturdays we will not hold class. Players may register only on the first Saturday of a four-week session.

To register in advance, please download a registration form and please attach a check made payable to the U.S. Chess Center, then mail it.