Our Mission is to help kids develop their full potential supported by chess. Other than todays techologcial impact we aim teach them focus and strategic thinking combined with fun and action.
The Story of Chess4Kids
Chess4Kids was founded in 2010 by Bea Johner. Her son Maximilian Johner was diagnosed with ADHD at the time. Looking for a meaningful alternative to medications such as Ritalin, she wanted to create an environment where children could develop concentration, patience, and self-confidence in a playful way—and found it in chess.
This personal motivation led to the creation of a unique learning concept at the first branch in Zollikon, which helps children aged 4 and up to strengthen their mental abilities. Chess became a tool that not only promotes thinking, but also character and perseverance.
Today, Maximilian Johner, who was the inspiration behind this idea, runs the company as its managing director.
Playful Approach
The children are mentored individually to succeed their challenging tasks and gain confidence in their personal capabilities. Our group sizes are small in order to allow the teachers the time to focus on each individual child. Children are ready to learn chess as of the age of 4 years old.
The children then progress at their own pace and they do this by being able to compete with other children who are at the same level as they are. The children become self-motivated through their own successes and in turn are able to build up their self-confidence and self-esteem. In our classroom your child will experience the ability to take risks, make commitments and enjoy their achievements in a safe and fun environment.
Our course facilities have several experiential areas reaching from living chess to training stations.
Our guidelines
Respect
Playing Chess, the kids need to respect their opponent. The first thing before they play a chess game is the hand shake. And after the game – never mind if lost or won – the kids treat each other with respect.
Responsibility
Chess teaches responsability. It is the only game that has no luck factor. The result of a game is due to strategy, tactics and concentration. If the oppoent won, it is important for the child to take responsability for his moves that led to the result.
Honesty
At Chess4kids, we dont tolerate cheating. Along with respect, we teach the kids how to handle win and loss with a good character. The kids honestly express their feelings, but in a respectful way.
Kindness
Kindness is the emotion to help people, to wish people good. The chess player trains for combat but from a perspective of kindness. Aware that victory is attained through inner piece and harmony.