Chess for kids and families
Chess teaches children to slow down, think ahead, and lose gracefully. Our club has taught beginners since 2013, and your child doesn't need any experience to join us. Neither do you.
Start on a Friday or Saturday. The casual games at Barnes & Noble cost nothing, need no membership, and are the gentlest first visit for a young player.
Three ways to play
Free casual games
Fridays and Saturdays, 6:00 to 9:00 pm at Barnes & Noble, Friendly Center. No cost, no membership, no pressure. Come and go as you like.
See the detailsRated tournaments
Wednesdays at Lewis Recreation Center, doors at 6:30 pm and tournament play from 7:00 pm, $10 to play. Children ready to compete can enter the rated tournament, which needs a US Chess membership ($24 a year under 19). Everyone else plays casual games instead.
How tournaments workPrivate lessons
Our coaches teach children one to one, in person or online, at whatever level your child is starting from.
Meet the coachesBring a friend
Children often settle in faster with someone they know. Two new players are welcome as easily as one.
Ask us anythingWhat parents should know
A parent stays
We ask that a parent or guardian remain for the whole time their child is playing. It keeps children safe and means someone is always there for them.
We provide everything
Sets, boards, and clocks are all supplied. Bring nothing but your child.
No experience needed
If your child knows how the pieces move, that's enough. If they don't, someone will teach them. That's how most of us started.
Fair matches
Children are paired with players near their own strength, so games stay competitive and nobody gets discouraged on their first night.
At the club
Come and see
Turn up on a Friday or Saturday evening, or email us first if you'd rather know what to expect.
Email the club