Beginner Course (Level 1)

♟️ Brainiac Chess Academy – Beginner Course (Level 1)

  • Getting to Know the Chessboard
  • How Each Piece Moves
  • Capturing Like a Champion
  • The Power of the Pawn
  • Standing Strong: Basics of Defence
  • What is Check? And How to Escape It
  • Checkmate Basics – Part 1
  • Checkmate Basics – Part 2
  • Castling: The King’s Special Move
  • Smart Trades: Understanding Exchanges
  • Double Trouble: Twofold Attacks
  • When the Game Ends in a Draw
  • Winning with the Queen
  • En Passant: The Secret Pawn Move

1. Chess Development of a Child

Chess builds focus, patience, memory, and decision-making. At Beginner Level 1, children learn to think ahead, plan moves, and understand consequences. This early development not only improves their game but also enhances school performance in mathematics and logical reasoning. Chess gives them a safe space to experiment, make mistakes, and learn resilience.

2. Organisation

Children thrive in a structured learning environment. Our Level 1 course is divided into small, achievable lessons—each class has a clear start, middle, and end. We combine short explanations, practice puzzles, and fun mini-games. This organisation helps children feel confident, knowing what to expect every session, and keeps learning stress-free.

3. Motivation

Young beginners often lose interest if lessons are too theoretical. That’s why we keep sessions interactive with badges, puzzles, and mini-challenges. Small rewards—like earning a “Pawn Master” title—motivate kids to continue. Parents also play a role: celebrating small achievements reinforces a child’s enthusiasm.

4. Teaching

Teaching chess to a beginner requires patience and simplicity. At Brainiac, we use storytelling—pawns become “soldiers,” kings are “protected leaders,” and rooks are “castles.” By turning lessons into stories, children learn naturally without feeling overwhelmed. The aim is not memorisation but discovery through guided play.

5. Sequence of Teaching Material

Children learn best when lessons build gradually. Level 1 starts with the chessboard, moves of the pieces, and capturing. Only once they master the basics do we introduce check, checkmate, and special rules like castling. The sequence ensures a solid foundation, so no concept feels “out of place” or rushed.

6. Asking Questions

Engagement doubles when students are asked open questions: