Top Chess Apps and Online Resources to Teach Kids the Game

Chess has been called the “gymnasium of the mind,” and for good reason — it’s one of the best ways to teach kids patience, planning, and critical thinking while having fun. The beauty of chess is that it’s both ancient and endlessly modern. Whether you learned the game on a wooden board with your grandparents or play online against someone halfway across the world, the core challenge remains the same: outthink your opponent.

For parents, educators, and curious kids, finding the right resources can be tricky. Many chess apps appear and disappear, some start strong but fade when updates slow, and others aren’t designed with children’s needs in mind. That’s why this list focuses only on evergreen chess resources — platforms, books, and tools that have stood the test of time or are backed by organizations with staying power. This way, you can be confident that if your child falls in love with chess today, the resource you choose will still be useful years from now.

We’ve included a balanced mix:

Apps and online platforms for interactive play and lessons anytime, anywhere.
Books for offline learning, critical thinking, and screen-free practice.
Hybrid tools like board games with built-in teaching methods for hands-on play.

These resources cater to different learning styles. Some kids thrive in the competitive environment of online chess, where they can instantly find opponents their level. Others learn best by slowly turning the pages of a puzzle book or playing a guided match at the kitchen table. There’s no single “right” way to learn chess — and the best approach is often to mix and match.

The apps in this list, such as Chess.com, ChessKid, and Lichess, are highly active communities with robust security, making them safe bets for the long term. The books we’ve chosen range from friendly introductions for 5-year-olds to challenging strategy manuals for older kids ready to sharpen their skills. And for tactile learners, options like No Stress Chess turn the learning process into an engaging family activity.

Because these are evergreen picks, you won’t need to refresh your library every few months. Even if new apps or books appear, the fundamentals of chess don’t change — these classics will always be relevant. Whether your child dreams of becoming the next Magnus Carlsen or simply wants to enjoy a rainy afternoon match with you, this guide ensures they’ll have the tools to grow, compete, and enjoy the game for years to come.

Chess.com

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Chess.com is the most popular online chess platform globally, offering a wide range of features tailored for players of all ages and skill levels. The site includes interactive lessons, puzzles, and the ability to play live or turn-based games against players worldwide. With parental controls and a dedicated kids mode, Chess.com ensures a safe and friendly environment for younger users. The platform’s structured lesson paths start from the basics and progressively introduce advanced tactics, making it ideal for beginners and intermediate players alike. Its free plan is robust, and premium subscriptions unlock additional resources such as deeper puzzle sets and video content.

Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess

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Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess is a classic instructional book that introduces chess fundamentals through a unique programmed learning approach. The book uses a puzzle-based format where each solved problem leads the reader to the next step, gradually building tactical understanding and checkmating patterns. Written in clear, simple language, it is accessible to children aged 8 and up, as well as adults seeking a solid foundation. This timeless book is particularly valuable for developing pattern recognition skills critical to effective play. Its focus on puzzles rather than dense theory makes it ideal for self-study or supplemental learning.

Learning Chess Workbook Series by Vladimir Zak

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The Learning Chess Workbook Series by Vladimir Zak offers a highly visual and progressive approach to teaching chess, perfect for children. Each workbook guides readers through fundamental concepts to advanced strategies using short, engaging exercises and illustrations. The incremental structure allows learners to build their skills step-by-step, making it suitable for independent study or guided lessons with parents or coaches. The series emphasizes practical problem-solving and reinforces learning with clear, accessible content. This methodical progression helps maintain motivation while ensuring solid chess understanding.

No Stress Chess

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No Stress Chess combines a physical chess set with a unique card-based teaching system that introduces beginners to the rules and strategies in manageable steps. Players draw cards that direct which piece to move, gradually familiarizing them with piece movement and tactical concepts without overwhelming them. This hands-on approach is especially effective for younger children or those new to the game, making learning fun and interactive. Once confident, players can transition to standard chess play using the same set. It is a great resource for family game nights and offline learning.

ChessKid

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ChessKid is a child-focused spin-off of Chess.com designed specifically for kids aged 6 to 12. It features bright, colorful graphics and a gamified learning experience that includes animated lessons, puzzles, and kid-only tournaments. The platform prioritizes safety with filtered chat and parental controls, allowing parents to monitor progress and manage settings. ChessKid’s structured learning path helps beginners develop skills gradually while keeping the experience playful and engaging. Available on web browsers and mobile devices, it’s a convenient option for learning anytime.

Chess for Children by Murray Chandler

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Chess for Children by Murray Chandler is designed as a beginner-friendly book with large, clear illustrations and simple storytelling to teach chess rules and strategies. Its visual approach makes it especially effective for younger children aged 5 to 8, helping them grasp the basics without feeling overwhelmed. The book explains piece movements, game objectives, and basic tactics with approachable language. Often recommended as a first chess book, it serves as a gentle introduction before progressing to more advanced materials. It is ideal for parents or teachers guiding new players.

Play Magnus

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Play Magnus is an app created by World Chess Champion Magnus Carlsen that lets users challenge an AI version of Magnus at various ages, from beginner levels to grandmaster skill. This unique feature motivates kids by allowing them to “beat Magnus at age 8” and track their improvement over time. The app also offers tactics training and video lessons for premium subscribers, supplementing interactive gameplay with instructional content. It serves as a fun and inspirational tool but works best when paired with structured lessons or other learning resources. Play Magnus is available on both mobile platforms.

Winning Chess Strategy for Kids by Jeff Coakley

Winning Chess Strategy for Kids by Jeff Coakley offers a colorful and engaging introduction to fundamental chess tactics and strategic concepts. Packed with puzzles, illustrations, and clear explanations, it breaks down complex ideas such as forks, pins, and endgame techniques into digestible lessons. The book’s friendly tone and humor make it appealing to children, helping maintain interest throughout. Suitable for kids aged 7 to 12, it is often used as a supplementary resource alongside lessons or practice games. It provides an excellent foundation for young players aiming to deepen their understanding.

Lichess.org

Lichess.org is a free, open-source chess platform favored by educators and families for its accessibility and no-cost model. The site provides a clean, ad-free interface with features including puzzles, lessons, tournaments, and analysis tools. Its 'Learn' section offers beginner-friendly explanations of chess rules, strategies, and common tactics, helping kids and new players build confidence. Lichess also supports various game modes like 'Puzzle Storm' and 'Puzzle Racer' that gamify tactical training to keep kids engaged. Since there are no subscription fees, it is an excellent option for budget-conscious families and schools.

Build Up Your Chess Series by Artur Yusupov

The “Build Up Your Chess” series by Artur Yusupov is a well-regarded, structured training program aimed at intermediate to advanced young players. Authored by a former world top-10 player and coach, the series covers tactics, strategy, endgames, and calculation skills in depth. The books follow a step-by-step curriculum where each chapter introduces concepts followed by exercises to reinforce learning. This methodical approach makes it a gold standard for kids serious about improving their chess. While more challenging than beginner books, it rewards dedicated learners with a solid foundation for competition.