Fall/Winter 2026–27 · Kids chess classes
Group Chess Lessons for Kids
The current 20-week Fall/Winter semester runs September 8, 2026–January 31, 2027. Students build confidence, practice with peers, and get coached in the right level and next step.
Looking for in-person group chess classes for kids in Manhattan? Chess Max offers level-based groups on the Upper West Side, Upper East Side and Lexington / 93rd, plus Greenwich, CT.
A confident start
One clear choice now makes the next class easier.
Kids learn in a small class rhythm: coach instruction, guided practice, peer games, and feedback. Start with the child’s current level, then choose the setting that fits your family.
Tell us about your child
New to chess, ready to grow, or tournament-curious — every student starts from a real current level.
Find the right group
The free evaluation helps Chess Max guide placement instead of asking a parent to guess from a schedule.
Build the habit
Lessons, practice games, and coach feedback turn useful chess ideas into calmer decisions at the board.
Fall/Winter locations
In-person group chess classes for kids in Manhattan and Greenwich
Choose Upper West Side, Upper East Side, Lexington / 93rd or Greenwich for in-person group chess classes for kids. Each location page has its current class times, tuition, trial fees and registration.
Upper West Side
110 West 79th St.
Structured instruction, peer games, and coach feedback for beginner, developing, and tournament-curious students.
Upper East Side
230 E 78th St.
A consistent class rhythm with coach instruction, guided practice, and games with peers.
Greenwich
79 E Putnam Ave.
Structured lessons, practice games, and coach feedback in a local group setting.
Lexington / 93rd
1435 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10128.
A group option for families choosing between Upper East Side locations.
Class format and fit
Choose the format that fits your family.
Fall/Winter 2026–27 is a 20-week semester. Choose a current schedule to review exact tuition, trial fees, and registration. See all chess lesson prices.
Online group classes
From $700/Semester. Trials are $40–$60, depending on class duration. Online School is a remote group path for kids who need structured instruction, coach feedback, and practice without traveling.
In-person group chess classes for kids
In-person group chess classes for kids are available in Manhattan and Greenwich. From $1,360/Semester. Trials are $60–$100, depending on class duration. Choose a physical location above for its current schedule.
Need help choosing?
Start with a free level evaluation before choosing online, in-person, or private support.
What students do in class
Lessons, practice games, and coach feedback.
Learn the idea. Coaches introduce chess concepts students can use in real games.
Practice actively. Students solve positions, play, and talk through important decisions.
Get feedback. Coaches help students understand what to improve between classes.
Keep practicing. Chess Max students can use the Chess Max Academy mobile app to practice between sessions.
Level placement
Find the right group for your child’s current level.
The best fit depends on experience, confidence, and goals. The free evaluation helps confirm the best starting group.
New to chess
For children learning the rules, basic tactics, and how to play a complete game with confidence.
Ready to grow
For students who know the basics and need structured lessons, practice games, and coach feedback.
Tournament-curious
For children who enjoy competition and want stronger habits before joining more events or private coaching.
Group or private?
Group classes are a strong foundation. Private lessons add individual focus.
Group lessons are a strong fit when your child learns well with peers and benefits from a regular class structure. Private lessons may be better when a child needs 1:1 coaching, tournament preparation, or a focused practice plan.
For students who benefit from a more structured group entry path, see Adaptive Group Chess.
Parent questions
Group lessons FAQ.
Straight answers before you choose a location or ask for placement guidance.
When does the current semester run?
The Fall/Winter 2026–27 20-week semester runs September 8, 2026–January 31, 2027. Choose your location’s schedule to review exact class times, tuition, trial fees, and direct registration.
How do we know which class level is right?
The best fit depends on age, experience, confidence, and goals. Use the approved evaluation or registration path so the Chess Max team can help guide placement.
Are classes online or in person?
Yes. Families can choose online group classes or in-person kids chess classes at New York City and Greenwich locations.
Where can my child take in-person group chess classes?
Choose a current group schedule for Upper West Side, Upper East Side, Lexington / 93rd or Greenwich. The location page shows class times, tuition, trial fee and registration.
Can beginners join?
Yes. Chess Max has groups for beginner, developing, and advanced students. The level evaluation helps confirm the best starting group.
When should we choose private lessons instead?
Private lessons are usually a better fit for one-on-one feedback, individual game review, or a custom practice plan.
Ready to find the right class?
Start with placement, then choose the class path that fits.
Use the free evaluation if you are unsure where your child belongs, or open a current Fall/Winter location schedule when you already know the best direction.