Chess Parents and Kids: Chess Vacation

The United States Chess Federation hosts five National Scholastic Tournaments each year, two in the fall and three in the spring. The events are held in various places throughout the country. The top players from far and wide come to show off their skills, but more than just the “best-of-the-best” sign up to play.

National Scholastic Tournaments are open to children of all levels of play. Children who find one of these events close to home often make it their first tournament experience. Though playing alongside hundreds of others may seem intimating, most youngsters find it fun. The players spend several days surrounded by kids and adults who love the same game they do. Friendships are forged and skills are honed.

National Scholastic Tournaments are also a great family retreat. The hotel rates are always reduced, so often families will travel together, and in between rounds (i.e., games played) they go site-seeing in the host city.