Chess for Kids

Julie: Also, remember to watch Parents TV on Comcast Video on Demand in the Kids section. If you don't have Comcast, you can check us out at youtube.com/parentstv. Parents TV is the best source for your parenting information. Speaker: Thanks so much Julie. Well, it's the game that takes no batteries, needs no internet connection and has nothing to do with computers yet some kids love it. And what's even better, it's been proven to boost everything from concentration to test scores, what is it? Tony has got the answer in today's Better Parenting. Tony Martinez: It's chess. That's right, chess. You probably have a board stuff, we have a game closet right now so dust it off, and let the games begin. Kirk Hedund: Anywhere between 5 and 10 is a good starting age. Tony Martinez: And a great way to get kids started, of any age, with chess is through a chess camp, like the one Kirk Hedund runs. Kirk Hedund: I always try to emphasize sportsmanship and good etiquette like shaking hands before and after the game. Tony Martinez: Under Kirk's guidance these kids are getting their first exposure to the game under ideal circumstances. Kirk Hedund: The better your game gets, the more complex the game gets because you start looking deeper for the -- the moves. Tony Martinez: Like other great games, chess works on many levels, some of life's best lessons are right there and clearly how to win and lose gracefully. Kirk Hedund: The simple solution to losing your game is to setup the board and challenge somebody else and play another game. Tony Martinez: As to whether or not adults playing chess with kids should try their hardest or hold back a bit, coach Kirk has this advice. Kirk Hedund: I always make the best move, I know I don't hold back. Tony Martinez: Chess is also a game kids can grow into, for many it becomes a lifelong passion. But best of all it makes kids think. Kirk Hedund: Strengthening your brain muscles, so the academics will definitely seem a lot easier. Tony Martinez: So cool as the kids engage in something so powerful, has nothing to do with electronics, and it's so good for them in so many ways. I am Tony Martinez. Thanks for watching. Speaker: Alright, in case you are curious, the longest chess game in history was played in 1989, it lasted 20 hours and it ended in a draw.