Are Online Chess Platforms Safer for Children?

Online chess is getting more popular day by day. Many kids now learn, play and practice chess on online Platforms like Chess.com , Lichess.org, Chess kids etc

One question which often pop up in parents mind is

“Are online chess platforms really safe for young kids?”, and the answer really depends on how the platform is used. While chess is the best screen time activity for minors to keep them busy with something productive rather than mindless scrolling which results in nothing but costing the mental peace , still while playing chess on online platforms kids need appropriate supervision and privacy settings which every site has their own on their apps or websites.

What is the reason for playing Chess Online ?

The main benefit which youngsters are getting with online chess play is they get to play with the players all over the world without travelling anywhere or any other place or country on their own flexible time. They can also analyze their game using these platforms and actually work on their mistakes, practice chess on these platforms apart from their regular chess classes, solve as many puzzles and improve their critical thinking skills and will have access to chess news and educational content from expert coaches and grandmasters from all over the globe but despite all these benefits staying safe on the internet while using these platforms is crucial and highly recommended. Minors must be taught some basic things before getting access to any online platform as little supervision goes a long way and helps them protect themselves in the long run.

Basic Understanding of Online World

While playing ches on online platforms, players aren’t aware of who’s on the other side of the game and they may encounter few features options which have nothing to do with chess which includes live streaming, chats, comments, different forums and irrelevant ads.

This is where the supervision of any parent/ guardian becomes important and will play a vital role in teaching kids not to share their personal information to any stranger or they must take someone in loop when anything doesn't feel right to them or if the opponent is asking for any unnecessary information apart from the game.

Selection of Right Platform for Youth 

Before signing up on any platform, parents must check minimum age requirements and safety options of the platform.

Choosing a platform that is specifically designed for children with maximum benefits and safety should be considered and used for gameplay and puzzle solving activities.

Safety Features Matter

Since different platforms have different privacy and safety options available,so before giving full access to kids parents should invest some time to explore available safety options like

Chat Control

Chats and Calls

Blocking and Reporting Features

Parenting Control

Account visibility.

Some platforms like Lichess.org feature called Kids Mode specially designed for kids to create a safer environment for youngsters.

How Can Parents Make Online Chess Safer ?

These are some of the basic precautions which can make online games a lot safer for children as sitting beside kids during each and every time they’re using these platforms is not practically possible specially in this fast paced world.

1. Username should be chosen carefully that doesn’t reveal the basic and important information regarding kids and family members.

2. Explain a few safety options to kids and make them aware that any person who’s even playing a game as your opponent is still a stranger and they should never share any personal information to them and block and report instantly if they ask for it.

3. Online chess play is a productive screen time but it’s still a screen time they should maintain a healthy balance between gameplay and other daily routine activities.

Human Guidance is Irreplaceable

While online platforms really help in improving gameplay and rating and pointing out blunder, a guidance provided by coach is irreplaceable as they invest their time in understanding the mindset of every learner and clear the concepts and reason of their mistakes accordingly which really help them avoid repeating their mistakes without getting overwhelmed and demotivated upon facing losses during the game.

This human guidance whether it’s coming from any expert coach or parents itself is valuable.

Online chess play is a safer option to go with when using responsibility. With a right platform, checking age requirements, safety options teaching kids few boundaries it can be used without any fear.

With the right guidance, children can explore that world while keeping their focus where it belongs: on learning, playing, and enjoying the game.

Share this post: