What is the best age for children to start chess?

The only correct answer is that it depends. It depends on the child, but, even more so, it depends on the parents. It also depends on what you mean by chess.

The best age for your children to start chess might be 5, or perhaps even younger. Or it could be 15. More likely somewhere in the middle, perhaps 9, 10 or 11.

You see, chess is essentially a game for adults and older children, not a game for younger children. The games last too long. There are too many options on each move. The aim of the game is too abstract. Yes, very young children enjoy learning about the different pieces and their moves, and making some moves on the board. They particularly enjoy the physical sensation of making captures. But they’re not really playing chess. Without a lot of adult help they’ll soon get bored and move onto something else.

Short term fun rather than genuine long term benefit.

If your children are bright and mature for their age, and you’re prepared to spend a lot of time helping them at home, then starting young is great.

If you’re able to support and encourage your children by taking them to clubs, tournaments and private lessons on a regular basis, then starting your children at, say, 8, 9 or 10 would probably be a good idea.

If you’re not in a position to help your children at home – and there are all sorts of very good reasons why that might be the case, it would probably be best (in principle, anyway) if you let them discover chess for themselves at secondary school age.

My next post will look at what science has to say about the best age for children to start chess.