When I looked up why chess is a good game to play (I know it’s supposed to be good for you, I just wanted to know why)- the reasons listed are numerous;
- it develops memory
- improves concentration
- develops logical thinking
- promotes imagination and creativity
- teaches independence
and there are plenty more…but it made me think of chess in a whole new light. Though it is a sit-down activity, it’s anything but passive.
If you are interested in introducing your child to chess or helping them to continue their interest- there are some good (and some new) opportunities in Brooklyn.
Brooklyn Lyceum Play
Bring your children in to the Brooklyn Lyceum Mezzanine to play for free! Chess lessons are also available for $25. Most Sundays. 10AM-2PM. Free to play. Charge for lessons.
Details:
Brooklyn Lyceum
Corner of 4th Ave and President Street in Gowanus East (at border of Park Slope).
Greenpoint Chess Club
This brand new club from Town Square is a club where kids aged 6-10 can meet, play chess, and learn to improve their game. The hope is that the kids can go as a group to tournaments and compete across the city, although tournaments are not the main mission of the club – playing chess and having fun are. This is for a child who knows the fundamentals and enjoys the game, is an advanced beginner or is an intermediate level player. They are going to meet Sunday afternoons at 4 PM for 90 minute sessions. They will have a coach and also make a rotating schedule of parental supervision. There will be a $100 fee for the half year (which comes out to about $5 per session!). They have about 8 kids interested and available so far, and we think they will max out with 16 kids based on the space.
Details:
The first and next meeting is Sunday, January 15th. If you’re interested, please contact Debbie at 917.957.1714 or deborahfeiner@gmail.com with your child’s name, age, grade, school attended, and level of play (i.e. beginner, advanced beginner, intermediate, etc) and whether they play chess at school or in competitions.
The Brooklyn Strategist Chess and Checkers
This board and card game center, cafe and social club is a pretty unique brick and mortar in Brooklyn. They run afternoon clubs, including one for chess and checkers on Wednesday afternoons from 3:15 pm to 5:15 pm.
Details:
The Brooklyn Strategist
388 Atlantic Avenue (Ground Floor),
between Hoyt and Bond