Our program is set up so students can achieve 6 rank advancements as new skills are mastered (Ranks are Pawn, Knight, Bishop, Rook, Queen and King). You can follow our guidebooks through each rank. Beginners start on the Beginner Packet. When you come into chess Friday mornings, you grab your current paper packet, chess board and chess set. Find a place to sit to work on the packet sign-off sheet or to play a game of chess. You'll turn your guidebook at the end each day and we'll have it ready for you next week. Each week we give away tickets for advancements and we pick tickets each week to giveaway prizes. As you advance a full rank we give away certificates and honor you at the end of the chess meeting.

If you are knew to chess, watch this video to learn the basics before starting: https://www.chesskid.com/videos/the-magic-of-chess

or read this article: https://www.chesskid.com/how-to-play-chess

We have adapted our existing program at Willow Springs to more closely follow lessons and instructions with the program at ChessKid.com (also known as the "Chess for Kids" app by chess.com). This will help your student supplement their learning and give them more opportunities at home to progress within the program outside of our Friday meetings. We have 3 premium ChessKid accounts that we use during our Friday morning chess activities. If you would like full access at home please email us at willowspringschess@gmail.com.

The videos below will help familiarize yourself with the different features and navigation at ChessKid.com.