For years now, LINC’s fleet of chess instructors have been working our after-school programs with evangelistic zeal.

We love chess. We praise its power to get young minds thinking strategically, build problem-solving skills and model character and self-confidence.

Now LINC’s beginner chess lesson has been captured on video. Check it out on our LINC chess page: kclinc.org/chess.

The virtual class is ideal for a parent who wants to learn how to help their child start their chess journey — or to get started themselves.

See how LINC teaches the game.

“It is easy, relaxing — just an enjoyable time,” LINC chess director Ken Lingelbach says at the outset of the training video. “I want you to enjoy yourself. I want you to learn.”

LINC’s chess specialists have been teaching children and also teaching LINC staff the strategies they use to help build chess skills and enthusiasm. Capturing the beginner course on video will help others join in spreading the chess mission, Lingelbach said.

“Anybody can see it,” he said. “A parent can see what they can do to help a kid approach the game if they’re just starting. LINC is very devoted (to chess) and we want kids to learn it and be successful.”

Most of LINC’s before- and after-school program sites have chess programs and children can enter several competitions throughout the year that match contestants into a variety of skill and age levels. During the pandemic, the competitions went online with virtual chess programs.

You’ll be surprised, Lingelbach said, how much students learn and how quickly they start building the math and critical-thinking skills. But if you ask a child about it, chances are they won’t say they’re working, or studying at chess, Lingelbach said. “They say, ‘I’m playing.’”

With the video, LINC has made its opening move. Now it’s your play.