The Complete Guide to Children's Chess Classes in Brooklyn
Looking for live chess classes for kids in Brooklyn? Discover what parents should look for in a quality program and learn about our new Sunday Chess Academy at 521 Halsey Street.
When parents search for children's chess classes in Brooklyn, they are usually looking for much more than someone who can explain how the pieces move.
They want a program where their child will be encouraged, challenged and treated as an individual. They want an experienced teacher who understands children. They also want an activity that develops concentration, confidence, patience, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
That is exactly why we created the Sunday Chess Academy at 521 Halsey Street.
Why Brooklyn Parents Choose Chess for Their Children
Chess gives children a safe place to make decisions, solve problems and learn from mistakes. Every move asks a child to pause, examine the situation and consider what might happen next.
Those habits can help children in school and in everyday life. Chess encourages children to take responsibility for their choices without making them afraid to try.
What Should Parents Look for in a Children's Chess Program?
Small Class Sizes
Children improve faster when their instructor knows them personally, understands their strengths and can identify what they need to work on. That is why each Sunday Chess Academy class is limited to 10 students.
An Instructor Who Understands Children
Knowing chess and teaching chess are not the same thing. Children need an instructor who can explain difficult ideas in a way that feels clear, encouraging and exciting.
National Master Ernest Colding has spent more than 40 years teaching children, from complete beginners to successful tournament players and national champions.
A Clear Path for Improvement
A strong chess program should not place every student in the same class. Beginners, intermediate students and advanced players need different challenges. Our academy offers three levels so every child can learn at an appropriate pace.
A Program That Makes Learning Enjoyable
Children learn best when they are engaged. Our live classes include guided instruction, challenges, puzzles, practice games, friendly competition and individual encouragement.
Introducing the Sunday Chess Academy
The academy begins on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at 521 Halsey Street, Brooklyn, NY 11233.
Each level is a structured 10-week live program for children ages 4–12. Tuition is $250, and free access to Jess's Chess Adventure is included with enrollment.
Choose the Right Sunday Chess Academy Level
Not sure which class is right for your child? Choose the level that best matches their current experience. Families may also contact us for placement guidance.
Beginner Academy
A welcoming class for children who are new to chess or still building a strong foundation.
- Ages 4–12
- Sundays, 12:45 PM–1:45 PM
- Chessboard and piece fundamentals
- Check, checkmate and basic tactics
- Introduction to tournament play
- Maximum 10 students
Intermediate Academy
For students who understand the rules and are ready to improve their tactical vision, strategy and tournament confidence.
- Ages 4–12
- Sundays, 2:00 PM–3:00 PM
- Tactics and combinations
- Strategic planning
- Game analysis and tournament skills
- Maximum 10 students
Advanced Academy
Serious instruction for experienced students who want to improve their tournament performance and deepen their understanding.
- Ages 4–12
- Sundays, 3:15 PM–4:45 PM
- Advanced strategy and tactics
- Calculation and positional play
- Endgames and tournament preparation
- Maximum 10 students
🎁 FREE Jess's Chess Adventure Membership
Every child who enrolls in the Sunday Chess Academy receives free access to Jess's Chess Adventure. This allows students to continue learning and practicing at home between live Sunday classes.
Why Chess for Children Is Different
Many chess programs teach children moves to remember. Our approach focuses on understanding.
Children learn how to examine a position, ask useful questions and make decisions based on what they understand. This gives them a foundation they can continue using as they progress.
The goal is not simply to help children win more chess games. The goal is to help them become more confident, independent thinkers.
Tuition and Installment Plan
Tuition for the complete 10-week live program is $250 when paid in full.
A flexible installment plan is available for $275 total. Contact us before enrolling to arrange the installment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the academy begin?
The first class is Sunday, July 19, 2026.
What ages do you accept?
All three academy levels are open to children ages 4–12. Placement is based primarily on chess experience and readiness.
Does my child need previous chess experience?
No. The Beginner Academy welcomes children who have never played or who are still learning the fundamentals.
Where are classes held?
Classes are held at 521 Halsey Street, Brooklyn, NY 11233.
How large are the classes?
Each class is limited to a maximum of 10 students so children can receive individual attention.
What is included with enrollment?
Enrollment includes 10 live Sunday classes, instruction at the appropriate skill level and free membership to Jess's Chess Adventure.
How do I choose the correct level?
Choose Beginner for children who are new to chess, Intermediate for children who know the rules and are ready to improve, and Advanced for experienced or tournament-focused students. Contact us if you need help with placement.
Reserve Your Child's Seat
Only 10 students are accepted in each class. Choose the academy level that best matches your child's experience and complete enrollment today.
Sunday Chess Academy
521 Halsey Street, Brooklyn, NY 11233
Starts Sunday, July 19, 2026
