Learn
Names first, then placement
Almost every chess resource for children starts with how the pieces move, and almost all of it is written for ages seven and up. A child who can name six pieces and set up a board has learned something real — and that's achievable at three.
Age and readiness
How to teach a 3-year-old chess
Don't start with how the pieces move. Start with the names of the pieces, then where they live on the board. A four-week sequence for ages 2–5.
6 min read →
What age can a child start learning chess?
There isn't one age. Ages 2–3 can learn piece names, 4–5 can set up the board and learn a move or two, and 6+ can hold the full rules.
4 min read →
The board
How to set up a chess board (with a free printable)
Set up a chess board from the middle outward: pawns, then queen and king, then bishop, knight and rook mirrored on both sides. Free printable setup chart.
5 min read →
Which side does the queen go on?
The queen stands on the square matching her own colour: white queen on a light square, black queen on a dark square. The king takes the other middle square.
3 min read →
Every post pairs with a free printable.