Social Distance with Online Chess Instruction

Originally written on 3 May, 2020 and published on 
 
The COVID-19 virus pandemic is requiring people to make adjustments to their lives. At the core of these adjustments is limited human interaction because the COVID-19 virus is a respiratory virus. "The disease spreads primarily from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth, which are expelled when a person with COVID-19 coughs, sneezes, or speaks."[1] The World Health Organisation (WHO) has published a list of precautions that can be taken to reduce the risk of contracting or passing on the virus to another person. One of these precautions is to observe social distancing. In many counties restriction of movement of people and banning public gathering were imposed and in some cases remain in place. This has resulted in the closure of traditional sports programmes, sports clubs, sports competitions and extra-curricular activities. These restrictions have increased the use of the internet to deliver classes and instruction.
Photo*
Online chess instruction and homeschooling

As a result of the closure of schools, sports programmes and sports clubs, many parents are searching for activities that will keep their children engaged and that will provide children with variety during these restrictions and not expose them to additional risk of contracting the new COVID-19 virus. One meaningful option for parents is Chess! Yes chess. Chess builds valuable learning skills[2]like concentration, problem solving, and mental calculation. These are critical skills which children can use during their school lives and as adults.

Parents who homeschool children are very familiar with online instruction and use it as needed to source the required teachers and leverage the use of technology. As far as chess is concerned, chess instructors have been delivering chess classes online for many years. These classes are made possible through the use of chess playing platforms and other online virtual meeting platforms.
​
Parents are naturally concerned and cautious about their children contracting the COVID-19 virus. As a result, they will likely avoid enrolling their children into contact sports and activities like athletics, football, basketball, judo, and marching bands. Online chess instruction and playing chess online is ideal for children in this COViD-19 environment. It is an excellent way to help avoid the COVID-19 virus and to keep your children engaged in a meaningful activity.