Studies
show that chess improves reading habits in kids, says Marley Kaplan, president
of Chess in the Schools, a nonprofit organization in New York City whose members
teach chess to 38,000 children every year. It may help math skills too.
If you want to teach your child to play chess, start introducing the different pieces and explaining how they work. Keep it simple. Forget that chess has educational value. Just explain the object of the game, what you can and cannot do, and let her play. Other resources that can help: Chess clubs are found in every area of the country.
Many schools have added chess to their curriculum and after-school activities. Check with your child's teacher. Or pick up a copy of the excellent computer training program Learn to Play Chess with Fritz & Chesster (for PC; $19.99 from amazon.com).
