Perseverance for kids is all about working hard and refusing to give up, even when the going gets tough. It isn’t an abstract concept, but rather a skill that can make a big difference in kids’ lives. 

 

Why perseverance matters

• Perseverance helps kids manage frustrations, which can help them work through tough subjects in school, leading to more academic success. 
• Perseverance helps keep kids’ social lives strong by teaching them how to manage emotions and feelings in a healthy way.
•  Perseverance encourages a growth mindset in which children don’t shy away from challenges, but instead learn to see failures as learning opportunities.
• Perseverance teaches patience, and the importance of taking careful consideration.
•  Perseverance helps kids build confidence and independence knowing that they can accomplish hard things when they put in the effort.

 

How chess helps kids develop perseverance

Thinking Ahead: Players must plan several moves in advance, which helps develop delayed gratification.

Accepting Losses: Losing is a part of life, but when kids learn how to analyze their games, it can help them see those mistakes as learning opportunities. 

Staying Calm Under Pressure: Chess requires some serious emotional regulation, and children have to learn how to manage frustrations during tough games. 

 

How you can help

Focus on Effort, Not Just Results: Instead of just praising a child when they win a game, focus an equal amount of attention on their hard work along the way.

Normalize Losing: Even grandmasters lose sometimes. After a loss, talk with your child about what they learned from it and what they want to do differently next time.

Celebrate Effort: Praise your child when they practice, when they keep trying, and when they accomplish small goals.

Encourage Growth Mindset: When a child says they can’t do something, add the word “yet” to the end of their sentence. “Just because you can’t do it yet, doesn’t mean you won’t get there with practice.”

Encourage Goal Setting: Work with your child to set both long-term and short-term goals. Celebrating progress along the way will keep them motivated.

Read Inspiring Books: Read non-fiction books that showcase real life stories of perseverance, or fiction books with characters that overcome challenges.

Be a Role Model: Share your own experiences of overcoming obstacles and the strategies you used.

Do a Variety of Activities That Require Delayed Gratification: Spend time doing jigsaw puzzles, baking, or planting a garden to help kids understand the joy that comes from patience.