In competitive chess there’s a code of etiquette. At the start of the game you introduce yourself to your opponent if you’re playing someone you don’t already know. You shake hands. You say ‘Good luck’ to each other. You play fair. You avoid doing anything that might possibly annoy or distract your opponent. You play in silence so that you, your opponent, and those around you can concentrate on the game. After the game you shake hands again. You say ‘Good game’. If you lose you might congratulate your opponent. If you win you might tell your opponent he/she played well. You don’t show off or gloat when you win. You don’t cry when you lose.
If you’re playing in a team, you congratulate your team mates who have won their games, and commiserate with those who have lost their games.
Most primary school teachers will agree that these are important lessons for all young children to learn.
If you’re playing competitive minichess, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t use the same ideas. We believe that ALL children can benefit from minichess, so ALL children can learn these important life lessons.
Minichess UK 