The answer, according to my research…… YES! While chess has long been regarded as a beneficial game for learning, studies have shown even more significant benefits, especially for children.
World Champion chess player Susan Polgar states,“According to research, test scores improved by 17.3% for students regularly engaged in chess classes, compared with only 4.6% for children participating in other forms of enriched activities.”
In almost 30 nations across the globe, chess is incorporated into the country’s required academic curriculum. And it seems that many schools and teachers in our country are getting the message and are bringing chess into the classroom.
Why is chess so beneficial to young children? For starters, chess has been proven to improve or increase:
– Science and math problem solving skills
– Reading comprehension
– Self-confidence, patience. and life skills
– Logic
– Visual memory
– Critical thinking and independent decision making
– Pattern recognition
– Ability to concentrate
– Analytical skills
The list goes on and on.
And for you adults: this game is for you too. You can learn to play at any age, and in chess, unlike many other sports, you don’t ever have to retire!
In the words of our eLearningk12 chess teacher and National Master Mike Papa,
“SAY YES TO CHESS!”