Chess Knight helps kids develop reasoning skills
April 17, 2009
By Idelle Kerzner
Post-Tribune correspondent
SCHERERVILLE — Reaching goals takes planning and resourcefulness. Children develop both during Chess Knight at the Dyer-Schererville Branch of the Lake County Public Library.
Some Chess Knight participants have mastered complex strategies; others still are learning basic moves. Children’s librarian Vicki Murphy directs the program and tries to make players of all skill levels feel comfortable.
“If you are playing someone who is newer, don’t forget to help them out,” she said.
Zachariah Sebenste, 7, said, “I practice chess at home with my brother and dad; I think it is fun.”
Nathan Bowdish, 11, of Dyer enjoys using his knights.
“The knight is a powerful piece,” he said. “It can jump over other pieces and get into places that are hard to get into.”
Jacob Manzo, 13, of Schererville exudes confidence. He learned the game as a 6-year-old from his grandfather, Gerard Manzo of Dyer.
“My grandpa taught me everything I know, and he did a good job,” Jacob said. “If (opponents) are aggressive, I take out their queen. If they play more on the defensive, I take their pawns and everything else.”
Murphy said Chess Knight takes a different approach than most clubs.
“Many chess clubs are more competitive,” she said. “I want them to have a good experience so they will come back to the library to see the books.
“I want them to know that a library can be a fun place to be.”
If you go
Chess Knight starts at 6:30 p.m. the fourth Monday each month at the Dyer-Schererville Branch of the Lake County Public Library, 1001 W. Lincoln Highway (U.S. 30), Schererville.
For more information about programs there, call 322-4731.
Source: http://www.post-trib.com
It also helps kids with other skills.