Chess From App to Board

There’s something timeless and captivating about chess—the strategy, the concentration, the thrill of planning a winning move. When Gabriel and I decided in 2020 to dive into learning chess together, it felt like stepping into a whole new world of challenge and discovery. What started as a playful introduction through an app quickly turned into real-life games where Gabriel’s sharp focus and determination often leave me in checkmate!

The Beginning: Learning with Magnus Kingdom App

It all began when we downloaded the Magnus Kingdom of Chess app on my iPad. Designed to make chess fun for children, it weaves learning into a magical world of quests and adventures, led by none other than Magnus Carlsen, the world chess champion.

From the moment Gabriel opened the app, he was hooked. The game’s colorful characters and interactive puzzles made learning the moves of the pieces feel like an exciting quest. Each new level introduced a different piece, starting with the pawns and building up to the mighty queen and king.

I loved watching how quickly Gabriel picked up the rules. “Mum, the knight moves in an L-shape!” he’d exclaim as he figured out each piece’s unique movement. His enthusiasm was contagious, and before long, we were both playing together, working through the app’s puzzles and challenges as a team.

Translating Digital Learning to the Real Chessboard

After spending some time with the app, we were both ready to take on a real chessboard. Gabriel couldn’t wait to put his newfound knowledge into action. As we set up the pieces, I could see how much he had absorbed from the app—he knew exactly where each piece belonged and could remember all their movements.

At first, we kept things simple. I’d help him think through his moves, asking questions like, “What do you think would happen if you move your bishop here?” Gabriel would pause, studying the board carefully before making his decision. But it didn’t take long for him to start making moves that surprised me—his focus was incredible. Even when I thought I had him in a tricky situation, he’d come up with a solution that left me scrambling.

Gabriel’s Focus: My Secret Weapon (and Challenge!)

The thing that amazes me most about playing chess with Gabriel is his ability to focus. Once he’s into the game, everything else fades away, and he’s completely immersed in the strategy. It’s a kind of quiet determination that I admire, especially for someone his age.

It’s also what makes him such a tough opponent! More often than not, Gabriel manages to outsmart me. He’s learned how to think ahead, planning moves that I don’t always see coming. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been caught off guard by his strategic thinking, and before I know it, I’m facing checkmate.

He’s especially clever with his knights and bishops. “Mum, I trapped you!” he’ll announce with a grin, and I can’t help but laugh, impressed by how quickly he’s mastered the game. His focus is sharp, and it’s become clear that I’m not just playing against my son—I’m playing against a serious chess competitor!

The Joy of Learning Together

What’s been most rewarding about learning chess with Gabriel is the time we’ve spent together. Chess is a game that challenges both of us, but it’s also a way for us to connect, to talk strategy, and to learn from each other. Gabriel’s curiosity and quick thinking keep me on my toes, and I love that we’re both growing our skills through this shared experience.

Sometimes we play just for fun, other times, the games are more intense, with both of us fully focused on the board. With every game, Gabriel improves. His ability to concentrate, his strategic thinking, and his love of the game make him a formidable opponent.

More than once, I’ve found myself completely outplayed by his clever moves, and while I like to think I’m giving him a good challenge, I have to admit that these days, I’m often on the losing side.

But honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. Watching Gabriel’s confidence grow as he masters new strategies and techniques has been one of the most rewarding parts of this chess journey. He’s learned how to think critically, plan ahead, and stay calm under pressure—all skills that I know will serve him well beyond the chessboard.

Conclusion: Chess, Focus, and Fun

Learning chess with Gabriel has been such a rewarding experience for both of us. What started as a fun way to pass the time with an app has turned into something more—a shared love for a classic game that challenges us both in new ways.

While I may not be the reigning chess champion in our house, I’m proud to see how much Gabriel has grown, not just as a chess player but in his ability to focus, think strategically, and enjoy the process of learning. Who knows? Maybe one day, I’ll finally win a game—or maybe I’ll just have to settle for being Gabriel’s favourite opponent!