Elevate your child’s cognitive skills with our "Strategic Thinking Development Extra Challenge Chess Worksheets" designed specifically for ages 5-7. These engaging worksheets introduce young learners to the fundamentals of chess while fostering critical thinking, problem solving, and strategic planning. Each activity is tailored to inspire creativity and encourage a love for strategy games, perfect for budding chess enthusiasts. With captivating illustrations and easy-to-follow instructions, children will enjoy honing their skills as they navigate various chess scenarios and challenges. Empower your child's mind and nurture their analytical abilities while they play—starting their journey in the world of chess has never been more fun!


Check out this FREE Trial Lesson on Chess for age 5-7!

Special Moves: Castling

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Interactive
  • 5-7
  • Strategic thinking development
  • Chess
  • Extra Challenge
Short Notation of Moves Worksheet
Short Notation of Moves Worksheet

Short Notation of Moves Worksheet

To master chess, you need more than just knowing the pieces and their moves - you need to be able to make notations of your moves. To make a short notation, write the piece name and square it moved to; for example, Bd2 for bishop on d2. Pawns don't need the piece name, just the square; e.g. g5. Show your kids how to draw lines to the board for the moves given.
Short Notation of Moves Worksheet
Worksheet
One Move Checkmates: Puzzle 2 Worksheet
One Move Checkmates: Puzzle 2 Worksheet

One Move Checkmates: Puzzle 2 Worksheet

Fine-tuning logic and critical thinking skills can be tricky but this free PDF offers a fun way for little logisticians to practice visual-spatial relationships and strategizing to checkmate the black king. It also boosts directional and reading skills which makes it a great brain-building puzzle.
One Move Checkmates: Puzzle 2 Worksheet
Worksheet
Castling No - no's: Part 2 Worksheet
Castling No - no's: Part 2 Worksheet

Castling No - no's: Part 2 Worksheet

Teach your child the rules of castling: no castling if the king is under attack or will move onto an attacked square, or cross an attack line. To prepare for a game of chess, help your child complete the exercise of identifying when the king can castle – check the pictures.
Castling No - no's: Part 2 Worksheet
Worksheet


Strategic thinking is a crucial cognitive skill that lays the foundation for problem-solving, decision-making, and critical analysis. Introducing children aged 5-7 to Extra Challenge Chess is an engaging way to cultivate these skills early on. Chess encourages young learners to think several steps ahead, weighing potential outcomes and adapting strategies to changing circumstances. This stimulation of cognitive development not only enhances academic performance but also nurtures qualities such as patience, discipline, and resilience.

Parents and teachers should care about much more than just academic proficiency; they should be concerned with nurturing well-rounded individuals capable of navigating life's challenges. By involving children in chess, they learn to anticipate others’ moves, fostering empathy and social skills through understanding different perspectives. Additionally, the game promotes mathematical thinking and enhances concentration.

Participating in chess at a young age can also lower anxiety levels when facing competition, as children become accustomed to strategic planning against an opponent. Furthermore, the joy of overcoming challenges in chess fosters a growth mindset, encouraging children to understand that mastery comes through practice and perseverance. Ultimately, developing strategic thinking through Extra Challenge Chess prepares children not just for academic success but also for everyday decision-making throughout their lives.