Hobbies And Interests
Logic
One of the best skills that chess helps develop is a child's logic skills. A student must understand that every move he makes will have consequences, as well as a subsequent impact on the rest of the game. The more a child plays chess, the more he will have to think ahead to the larger picture. These principles are quickly and easily applied to real-life decisions for children, as they begin to understand that all decisions have consequences.
Imagination
Another critical thinking skill that chess helps improve is a child's imagination. The game of chess forces a player to imagine the way she would like to see the pieces arranged, and of course, the outcome she would like to see as well. The possibilities are endless in the game of chess, and the more it is played the more a child must use her imagination. This will help her to be more creative in the classroom and at home as well.
Cause and Effect
Cause and effect is another main critical thinking skill that is developed by playing chess. A child will soon discover that each move made in the game has a certain effect on the entire outcome. This is a real world application of the cause and effect lessons he has been taught in school. It will help him to understand that all decisions in life have consequences that can be good or bad. The game of chess promotes well thought out decisions, and making positive, informed choices.
Academic
There are many academic critical thinking skills that children develop by playing chess as well. Understanding of both math and science are needed in the game, and she will be able to better comprehend the real world applications of these academic subjects. For instance, she uses science when she tries out new moves, and then attempts to predict and evaluate the outcomes. Math is used when she is lining up her moves, and begins to understand that certain players can move in certain formations. She must keep track of the casualties and also how many pieces will be left on the game board.