In Benjamin Franklin’s essay, Morals of Chess, he wrote:

“The game of Chess is not merely an idle amusement. Several very valuable qualities of the mind, useful in the course of human life, are to be acquired or strengthened by it, so as to become habits, ready on all occasions… By playing at chess, then, we may learn:

[First], foresight, which looks a little into futurity, and considers the consequences that may attend an action…

[Second], circumspection, which surveys the whole chess-board, or scene of action, the relations of the several pieces and situations… and its consequences against him.

[Third], caution, not to make our moves too hastily.

And, lastly, we learn by chess the habit of not being discouraged by present bad appearences in the state of our affairs, the habit of hoping for a favourable change, and that of persevering in the search of resources.”

Benefits of Learning and Playing Chess:

The benefits of chess are far reaching and well documented for students of all ages.

Chess is not a game just for already gifted or intellectual children. Anyone can learn to play and experience enjoyment in chess. While intelligent children and teenagers may be naturally drawn to it, there is strong evidence that chess improves analytical and critical thinking skills as well as overall cognitive ability. Likewise, chess imparts a wide variety of benefits including improved memory, problem solving, and focus among many others. Overall, chess has been shown to improve academic performance in school.

Also, chess provides an opportunity for children and youth who who tend to be more shy and want the opportunity to develop a new talent and make friends in a welcoming and low risk environment.

For more information about the benefits of chess, click here.