Chess Resources for Parents: Official Rating Lists, Federations and Free Tools
Chess has a wonderful ecosystem of free and official resources. This is our short, trusted list of chess links for parents: where to check ratings, who runs the game, and where children can practise for free.
Official bodies and rating lists
- FIDE, the international chess federation, which sets the rules and rating system.
- FIDE ratings, where you can look up any player's or coach's FIDE ID and rating.
- All India Chess Federation (AICF), the national body for chess in India.
- US Chess Federation (USCF), the national body in the United States.
How to check a coach's FIDE ID
- Ask the coach or academy for their FIDE ID number.
- Open the FIDE ratings site and search by that ID.
- Check that the name, federation and rating match what you were told.
Not every excellent coach has a FIDE rating, but if an academy says its coaches are FIDE-rated, you can verify it in a minute. Read more in who teaches your child's class.
Free places to practise
- Lichess, a free, ad-free site with games, puzzles and lessons.
- Chess.com, with games, puzzles and lessons (some features are paid).
- ChessKid, a kid-friendly platform. See apps vs live coaching.
Our own tools and guides
- FIDE rating calculator, to see how a result changes a rating.
- How to get a FIDE rating in India and USCF ratings explained.
- 12 tips for a first tournament.
- Beginner's roadmap and fun chess games at home.
- Online chess safety for kids.
Finding tournaments
Tournaments are usually announced by federations and state or district associations, and each event has its own entry rules and fees. Check the official notice for the event and, for rated events, ask what ID or registration is needed.
Want structured help?
Free resources are great for practice, but a coach spots what apps cannot. See our courses, pricing and book a free demo.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I check a chess player's FIDE rating?
On the official FIDE ratings website, by searching the player's name or FIDE ID.
What is the best free site for children to practise chess?
Lichess is free and ad-free, and ChessKid is designed for children. A coach can then guide what to practise.
Which federation runs chess in India?
The All India Chess Federation (AICF) is the national body, with state and district associations organising local events.
Explore The Digital Chessboard Academy
- Courses: Beginner Explorer to Champion Track
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- The Parent Portal
- Free FIDE rating calculator
- Chess learning options compared
- Online chess academies compared
- All chess articles
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