When the world is on a break and industries seem to have shut down for aeons, what could probably prosper? Entertainment seems to be the only segment that has crawled out of the casualties with very few scratches. As the world takes refuge on the internet and makes it home, thanks to the lock-out, games that are versatile online seem to shine through the darkness. Chess, for one, has experienced little to no change in spreading a lot more than just enlightenment.
While sportspersons are complaining about their decline in form due to getting out of practice, chess players are making the most of this pandemic season, brushing up their skills to get better and win a few titles post this lockdown. So, can it be said that the chess fraternity is rarely affected by the vicious Covid-19?
What are the grandmasters saying?
The brilliance of Indian origin, Vishwanathan Anand, has been in Germany since February and has readily adopted self-isolation. To quote outlookindia.com where Mr. Anand has commented on the Covid-19 situation, “Nobody really knows what the impact (of Covid-19) on the economy will be. First of all, let’s take chess. Chess was already something that happened a lot on the internet. So, it has been relatively smooth to adapt to going completely online….”.
Yes, it is true that the championships and tournaments have been cancelled or postponed, but chess has found its place as a favourite pastime for some and for others, an opportunity to sharpen one’s skills.
Even for little grandmasters, online chess has proved to be beneficial during this time while they wait for their schools to reopen. The young minds like R Praggnanandhaa, D Gukesh and P Iniyan are utilizing their time to make the best use of this time.
How promising are online chess classes for kids and young adults?
Even before quarantine, online chess classes were a concept that could bring learners and the learned closer. It used to be of help for kids around the world as they could learn chess from their mentors from a distance and gain from it. This concept is at present utilized in these days of social-distancing and is bringing chess academies, summer camps and students together. Engaging programmes are created to enhance and nurture existing skills and mould them into better professional strategies.
Since the lockdown, kids have gained some time to look over their tight schedules of academics and invest some time to play a game or two. Whether with family, friends or on a professional level with competitors, online chess games are changing the way people spend their leisure times in a locked out world!
How online chess classes are beneficial amidst the lockdown?
All over the globe, people are discussing the tragedies that this pandemic is bringing onto the lives of people, irrespective of their profession. Mental health has become a great concern for all, be it kids, or adults. Covid-19 is not only breaking down your physical being but also your mental health. The constant feeling of ‘trapped inside’ and the hopelessness is making people anxious. You need to divert your kids’ attention from these negative emotions to build something constructive.
So, how are online chess classes helping your kids?
The Learning Curve - Continuous learning is not a ritual but a need for kids. Their brains are constantly active and grasp everything that is delivered to them. Thus, chess classes are a source of learning. They are amplifying the kids’ abilities through cognitive learning, improving concentration, refining their decision-making abilities etc.
Bridging the Gap - The line between the real and virtual is fading at an increased pace. While people are literally living on the internet, your kids need a break from the games and textbooks. At this point, connecting them with peers over an interactive activity is a wise decision. Online chess classes are great for your kids as they get a chance to meet their friends virtually and also share a common interest.
A Healthy Schedule - The advantage of scheduling cannot be ignored. Your kids can take up classes as per their choice. Most of the online chess classes provide a timeline for their students and your kid can choose accordingly. They are safe, healthy, at the comfort of their homes.
Easy Practising - Going to an academy and coming back might take away all that time from your little geniuses that they can utilize in doing something more significant. Online chess classes not only shrink the time but also help kids to learn and practise their game. Practising is important and generally going back and forth takes away all the energy left in them, after school. Thus, online chess classes can be a great alternative for their overall progress.
Tracking the Progress - One additional benefit of online classes is that your kid can track his/her progress precisely. This tracking would help them frame strategies and enhance their game respectively. Altering their openings, playing a stronger endgame or even making adjustments to the perspective that they used to play with, tracking progress can do a lot. Balancing your strong points with your weakest ones. Online chess classes provide you with an upper hand overall.
With all these benefits of online chess coaching, you might be looking for a class that would be perfect for your kid. Mind Mentorz is a premium chess academy that is offering online chess coaching for your kids. Along with experienced instructors and a multi-levelled, comprehensive coaching plan, your kid will learn to ace the game within no time. To enrol, just click here. If you are looking for more info on the same, you are most welcome to read our blog: A Virus, a lock-out, and some cognitive training! - Engaging the little minds in the times of Corona.