Private vs Group Chess Lessons: What’s Best for Your Child?

Should I go for group classes or find a private coach? – These are one of the most common questions we hear from other parents (and asked ourselves in the beginning).

Every child is different, so the best choice really depends on what works for yours: how they learn best, what they enjoy, and where they are on their chess journey. Having gone through this ourselves and after talking to other parents – we have found that both group and private lessons can play an important role at different stages.

Why Group Chess Lessons Might Be a Great Starting Point

From what we have seen, many kids make the most progress in group lessons – at least until they reach a rating of around 1200. The primary reason for that – it is fun. They get excited playing against each other, celebrate wins (especially when someone blunders!), and just enjoy the shared energy. This atmosphere makes learning less like studying and more like an adventure. Individual lessons at this level may become boring and more theoretical. But in a group, kids pick up skills without even realising it – they’re learning by doing, and often pushing themselves just to keep up with their friends.

Even at higher levels, many strong players have developed through group training. The old Soviet chess school, for example, was famous for its group training method. Coaches like Mark Dvoretsky worked with future stars like Artur Yusupov and Sergei Dolmatov in group settings – and Yusupov went on to be ranked third in the world, just behind Garry Kasparov and Anatoly Karpov.

Here is why group classes often work so well:

• They are social – Kids get to meet others who love chess too, which makes learning more enjoyable and less isolating.
• Motivating environment – Playing with others helps children stay motivated, especially when they see friends improving alongside them.
• Learning from peers – It’s not just about learning from the teacher – kids learn from each other. They chat about tactics, share what worked for them, and sometimes even teach each other better than adults can!
• More affordable – Group classes are generally less expensive than private lessons, which make them more affordable for many families.
• Structured learning – Classes tend to follow a curriculum that introduces concepts step-by-step – from beginner basics to more advanced tactics.
• Pathway to the chess world – Many group students go on to join clubs, play in tournaments, and find practice partners, growing their confidence and sense of community.

If your child enjoys being around others and is still early in their chess journey, group lessons can be the perfect entry point.

Private Chess Lessons

If your child prefers one-on-one learning or needs personalised attention, private lessons might be the perfect fit. Here is why:

1. Tailored to your child – In private lessons, the pace is entirely up to your child. The coach focuses on exactly what is needed. Whether it is solving a specific struggle or preparing for a tournament, the lesson is all about them.
2. Targeted goals – Private lessons are great for working towards specific goals. Whether your child is preparing for a competition, needs help with specific strategies, or wants to master particular aspects of the game, their instructor can focus on exactly what is needed.
3. Focused attention – With one-on-one coaching, your child gets the coach’s full attention. No distractions. This means quicker progress, more in-depth explanations, and a customised learning plan that targets childs’ strengths and weaknesses.
4. Flexible scheduling – Private lessons tend to be easier to fit into your family’s routine, and they can often happen online, which is a huge bonus if you have a busy week.

Private lessons are ideal for children who are looking for deep, tailored guidance and those who might need a bit more time and attention to absorb new material.

Online Chess Lessons

Another great option that is become really popular – especially since so many of us are managing busy schedules – is online learning. Whether it is group or private, online chess lessons offer a few unique advantages that are especially helpful for kids.

• Familiar environment – Learning from home can be a game changer, especially for kids who get anxious in unfamiliar places. Being in their own room or favorite spot at home helps them relax and focus better.
• Great for shy or sensitive kids – Some children may struggle in busy group settings. Online learning allows them to participate from a place where they feel safe and secure.
• Flexible and convenient – No rushing to get to the lesson on time. All you need is a stable internet connection and a laptop.
• Accessible from anywhere – You do not need to live in a big city or near a chess club. With online lessons, your child can learn from experienced coaches no matter where you are.

Which is Right for Your Child?

Every child is different, so the best choice really depends on what works for yours. Some kids thrive in group classes and love the buzz of learning with others. Others prefer the quiet, focused setting of a one-on-one lesson. And some really benefit from both.

• If your child enjoys learning through interaction, thrives in a social setting, and enjoys a bit of friendly competition, group lessons might be the way to go.
• If your child needs personalised attention, has specific goals in mind, or simply prefers one-on-one learning, private lessons could be the perfect fit.

Honestly, what has worked well for many families (ours included) is combining both approaches. Private lessons offer depth, and group lessons bring energy and community. You get personal attention with one, and a sense of team spirit with the other.

Whether you go for private coaching, group classes, online sessions – or a mix – it is all about finding what feels right for your child and your family. The most important thing is that they enjoy learning and feel supported as they grow their skills.