Play Chess on the same team (against the computer)

Playing games against young children can be tricky – there’s often a big skill gap and losing can be hard for them.

Instead, try playing on the same team against a computer opponent. You can talk through moves, support their learning, and still play properly without having to hold back.

How to try it:

• Download the free Chess.com app on your phone, tablet or computer.

• You can create an account or play as a guest.

• Choose “Play Bots”.

• Start at the easiest beginner level and move up as you improve together.

• Let your child choose their own moves – that’s how they learn. Once they’ve chosen, pause to talk through the options before making the move.

• (Optional) We like to use a real chessboard as well. Make the move on the board, enter it into the app, then copy the computer’s reply back onto the board.

Your children will still experience losing, and that’s important. But when you play on the same team, you win and lose together. This gives you the chance to model how to handle disappointment in a moment you’re both sharing, rather than after you’ve just beaten them.