Chess, not a gambit for schools

By Natasha Fujimoto

CHESS is a game that first appeared in India around the 6th century CE, spreading across the Asian continent to Europe by the end of the 10th century CE.

Today, there is an estimated 800 million players, globally.

Famed for its strategic and competitive nature, it is a sport of the mind, presenting many educational advantages for children who take it up improving math and reading skills as well as critical thinking, creative writing and decision making.

The game is also the perfect tonic for strengthening memory and concentration.

With so many benefits for children the question must be asked, why isn’t chess routinely taught in schools?

Shepparton Chess Club president, David

Wynne has seen numerous young players over the years, ranging from beginners to highly gifted players, one of which who can play entire games blindfolded, relying on spoken chess notation only to memorise the board.

Strongly advocating for chess to be taught in schools, David said, “Memory, focus and concentration are the skills that I see routinely being strengthened in our young players week to week.

“I see them not only enjoying thinking deeply, strategising but of course, having fun and enjoying the challenge.

“What I most enjoy seeing, however, is the gamesmanship that they develop, learning how to win but more importantly how to lose with grace.”

If there were any doubts about what chess can gift young players, research has also shown that playing the game can help reduce the likelihood of developing degenerative brain disease by promoting brain growth through the healthy

PLAYING CHESS IN SCHOOLS IS A WIN WIN...

An ancient game famed for its strategising and critical thinking, it is curious why the game isn’t routinely taught in schools.Promoting and strengthening memory, concentration and all-round academic performance, chess is the tonic for student success.

Photo: Supplied stimulation of neurons, which send signals from the brain to the body.

When functioning at an optimal level, the brain becomes stronger and faster.