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The Magic Theater was created to help children learn how to play chess and hopefully answer some of the question they are too shy to ask in class. I also made the Magic Theater with parents in mind; they too have questions. Most important: Never, ever make a child cry over a game of chess, if you do, you are doing something wrong. I have seen parents angrily berate a child for losing a game of chess and say foolish things like, "If you would just listen to me and do as I tell you, you wouldn't lose." Please don't do things like this. I know one of the best chess teachers in the country, and he will tell with absolute certainty that it is impossible to never lose a game of chess. Don't expect a child to do what the greatest master's of the game can't do. The computer is absolutely essential to the successful chess player, and there is so much out there that is free. Chessbase Light is free, and simply great. I have a few movies on how to use it, it is great for solving chess problems and for studying games. Download the 101 and 323 one-move mates, these problems are simple to understand, checkmates in one. Have your child do twenty or so a day, it will help them understand the concept of Checkmate. (see: Index lower left). Kids love Morphy games, download them as well. Paul Morphy is one of the greatest tactical players of all time. His games are clear and easily understood, children love playing over his games in Chessbase. (see: Index lower left). Play in Tournaments: If you commit yourself to a scholastic chess tournament, most of these are daylong events. Come prepared. Bring your laptop, or a book. I have seen parents set up a small office and get a lot of work done. On What You Should Buy Visit my book and software page. Come back often, the Magic Theater is something I believe in and want to do; and, hopefully, it will get better. Be well. Coach Mark |
One of the best things you can do for your child's chess game is to teach them how to use Chessbase Light. It is Free! Many of my parents ask me, "How can I help my child with Chess?" I always respond, "Have them solve chess problems." After learning how the pieces move and the basic rules of chess, the next step is check and checkmate. Checkmate can be a difficult concept for the beginner, especially the child. It takes practice. I have just added 101 simple one-move checkmate problems. Start there, then move on to the 323 one-move mates. (see: Index lower left). |