Why Chess Is One of the Best Gifts for Children
In a world where children grow up alongside technology and are exposed to various distractions, choosing a gift that truly challenges them has become a serious concern for parents. The classic idea of giving new toys or sweets to a child to make them happy was the standard in the childhood of today’s adults. But not for children nowadays. So, what are the gifts that really matter?
From my own experience, having closely observed many children growing up, I have concluded that the least beneficial gifts a child can receive are toys and sweets.
I have been teaching chess to children for many years and have interacted with hundreds of parents. Without exception, they have all told me the same thing: their children have too many toys and no longer appreciate them. Even those from families with limited resources have grown unimpressed by the number of things they receive. Toys break, get lost, or are forgotten. And, most of the time, they are immediately replaced with others. So there is no real connection, no true attachment.
I don’t give children toys.
It seems to me an empty gesture, without impact. I feel the same way about video games—they are among the most harmful gifts you can give. They encourage a sedentary lifestyle, foster addiction, and often come with arguments and frustrations within the family.
And sweets? With those, we only give parents another “battle” to fight: a child who asks for more, becomes agitated, or refuses to eat healthy food.
And yet… what gifts could have a beneficial impact?
The answer is simple: experiences and learning.
Here are a few examples of gifts that truly support a child’s development:
A ticket to a football match, if they are passionate about sports. An outing to the theater, the circus, or the zoo—something that sparks their curiosity and gives them vivid memories. A good book, suitable for their age and interests.
A subscription to an educational platform, membership at an online school, a course in foreign languages, programming, drawing, a tennis or swimming club, or… chess. A private lesson, a workshop, an activity that takes them out of their routine and helps them discover new passions.
Chess could be a gift.
This is because it combines all the benefits mentioned above: it is an experience, a life lesson, an intelligent game.
Children who play chess develop logical thinking, patience, concentration, and decision-making skills. In addition, they learn that failure is an opportunity to improve, not a reason for frustration. Chess is not just a game. It is a tool for character building.
Next time you are looking for a gift for a child, ask yourself: Does it truly help them in the long run? Or does it only entertain them for the moment?
Choose with both heart and mind. Children need more than toys and sweets. They need challenges, meaning, and people who believe in their potential.
And if you’ve made it all the way to the end, here’s a little gift from us. There is a beautiful online space created by a mother from our community, „Domnița poveştilor cu har”, a website filled with children’s poems, short stories, fun recommendations and thoughtful contests.
It’s the kind of place that nurtures imagination, perfectly aligned with the idea of meaningful gifts.
Give them a challenge that can help them for a lifetime!