Why online lessons?
Remote coaching is an easy way to connect globally, and has certain advantages over in-person lessons. Online lessons use interactive chess platforms for a seamless experience.
What ages do you teach?
Any age group above 7 years old.
Do you teach adults?
Absolutely! My oldest student was in their 70's, and I've even taught a member of the S.W.A.T. police force.
Skill Level Requirements
From absolute beginners who don't know how the pieces move, to advanced tournament competitors, I teach all levels. Each student's journey begins with an evaluation to ensure they are on the right learning path.
Lesson Frequency & Goals
Students should schedule lessons at their own pace and aptitude! I will always try to keep lessons fun while focusing on the goal of success at tournament events. Typically, students schedule once per week.
What is the Curriculum?
My curriculum covers HOW TO THINK in chess, board vision, tactical patterns, opening principles, middlegame mastery, endgames, and more. You wont just memorize brilliant moves.. you'll learn the process to create your own brilliancies.
How did you develop your cirriculum?
I am lifetime teacher and older sibling to seven children. I studied graduated with a Neuroscience degree from BYU, and taught college level Chemistry while there. I served as BYU's Chess President while there, and taught chess through 4H, afterschool, and the Boy Scouts of America, as well as private students. Later, I became a cardiac ultrasound technician and taught echocardiology to other students. It's no exaggeration to say I've taught thousands of students across different disciplines.
Over time, I've learned to quickly identify where students are struggling, and how to help them effectively whilst remaining patient. Teaching is both an art and science, and a beautiful experience when done correctly.
Like most disciplines, chess mastery requires a strong foundation to build upon. This is why one of the first lesson series my students will have is the "Thought Process," where we will break down the logical sequence of thoughts we can repeat every move. I will replace bad habits with good ones. I will change how my students perceive the chess board. We will study chess imbalances. And suddenly, my students all realize they have profoundly improved at chess!
What do I need to get started?
Simply schedule! Things you'll need are a functioning computer or ipad device, microphone or headset, video, and an account on chess.com or lichess.org. If you are under 18 years of age, I will need parental contact information and emailed consent before beginning lessons.
Lesson format
Free lessons are 30-minute trial lessons to review where a student is at, and to give useful guidance going forward. They are also meant to see if coach and student are a good fit!
Standard lessons are typically 50 minutes long, complete with post-lesson reports sent to the email of the family involved. These post reports will contain a lesson summary, how the student performed, and homework I expect them to complete in preparation for next lesson.
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Game reviews can also be scheduled separate from lessons. I will go over the games submitted by the student live and help them see where to improve.
Group lessons and presentations for your club or school can be scheduled through my email, kids4chess@gmail.com.
Pricing and payment
One-on-One
Standard lessons are currently priced at $45 per session, and include post email reports containing lesson summary, student performance, homework, and progress notes.
Game reviews are $35 and can last up to 50 minutes, but do not come with post-lesson reports.
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Group presentations
Group presentations and official tournaments can also be scheduled and are priced separately. I am an official Unites States Chess Federation tournament director and chess merit badge counselor for the Boy Scouts of America. Email kids4chess@gmail.com.
Scheduling is done through Calendly, and payments are processed through Stripe integration for your convenience and security.
Discounts
As a thank-you for successful referrals, students can obtain free lessons! I strongly believe my coaching program offers the best there is to maximize student learning, and I appreciate you spreading the word.