Chess is easily one of the most played games in the world. It requires a lot of dedication, years of practice and an exceptional amount of dedication. It is also surprising to know that not many people know about the countless benefits associated with this game, especially for children. In anticipation of the prestigious Chess Tournament taking place in Palmanova on 6th October, we, at Gran Isla, invite you to discover the 7 things your kids will learn whilst playing chess…

1. Chess helps to prevent Alzheimer’s disease. As we are aware, playing chess requires mental exertion and because the brain works like a muscle, and like any muscle it requires regular exercise, the practice of playing chess is very good for preventing the development of dementia and other diseases like anxiety and depression.
   
2. Kids become more skilled at problem-solving. In chess you have to think carefully about the moves you are going to make and foresee the consequences or advantages of making such moves. As such, your children will become very skilled at problem-solving which is beneficial for real-life circumstances. 
3. It improves concentration. Kids are often prone to day-dreaming and becoming easily-distracted which, when it comes to being creative, can be a good thing but can also be detrimental to their development if they can not concentrate during times when it is most needed. During an intense game of chess, it is considered almost impossible to be distracted by other factors as your child will be paying attention to every single detail and possibility, blocking out all outside noise. 
4. They’ll have a memory like an elephant. These animals are known to have exceptional memories and so will your children. This is because your children will have to constantly recall their opponent’s previous move and plan theirs accordingly. 
5. It raises your children’s IQ. Playing chess cannot make you smarter, per se, but it can certainly teach you how to use the intelligence
   already instilled in you to a smarter degree, manipulating how you see certain problems, how to read people, how to think more logically and how to maintain long periods of concentration.
   
6. Uses both parts of your brain. As we know, the brain has different sections used for different functions: concentration, memory, vision, organisation and many others… When playing chess, however, it has been found that players use both parts of their brain, leading to equal development of both sides. 
7. It improves your spatial abilities.  Spatial skills are when you are able to visualise objects in space and mentally manipulate and position images which is an essential skill to have in chess in order to be able to assess your positions well and solve complex problems.

Come and witness or take part in the prestigious Calvia Chess Festival from 6th October and see all these skills being put into practice!