What to Expect in Your Child's First Free Chess Demo Class (and Questions to Ask)

A free demo class is the best way to choose a chess academy, because you see the coach and your child's reaction for yourself. Here is how to make the most of it: what to expect, how to prepare and what to ask.

Why a demo class matters

Websites, reviews and comparison tables only go so far. A demo class shows you how the coach explains ideas, whether your child is engaged, and how comfortable the class feels. At The Digital Chessboard Academy the demo is free and carries no obligation, and we offer a 7-day money-back guarantee after you enrol. You can use the same approach with any academy, including other online chess academies.

Before the demo: how to prepare

1. Book a time when your child is fresh, not just after school or hungry.
2. Test your device and internet a few minutes before. Check the camera, microphone and the link.
3. Find a quiet place with a comfortable seat. Switch off distractions.
4. Tell the coach about your child. Their age, experience and goals help the coach pitch the session. If your child is new, say so.
5. Keep a board nearby if you have one (optional).
6. Relax your child. Explain it is a friendly, fun class, not a test.

What a good demo class should include

• A friendly welcome, so the child feels at ease.
• Finding the level: the coach asks questions or has the child play a few moves to see what they know.
• Some real teaching, not just a sales talk: a short lesson or activity.
• Interaction. The child should speak, move pieces and get feedback.
• Time for your questions about levels, batches, schedules, pricing and progress tracking.

Questions to ask the coach or academy

Topic	Question
Coach	Who will teach my child, and what are their credentials? See who teaches your child's class
Class size	How many students are in a batch?
Level	Which level would you place my child in, and why?
Curriculum	What will my child learn over the next three months?
Progress	How will I see progress? Reports, portal or meetings?
Schedule	What are the timings, and what if we miss a class?
Cost	What is the total cost, billing period and refund policy? See cost per class
Tournaments	Are there tournaments for practice?

What to watch for during the class

• Is your child smiling, answering and paying attention?
• Does the coach explain simply and encourage?
• Does the coach respond to your child's level and pace?
• Does the class feel organised and on time?

After the demo: how to decide

1. Ask your child first. "Did you enjoy it? What did you like?" A motivated child is the best sign.
2. Use a checklist. Compare coach, class size, curriculum, reporting, schedule and cost. See our 10-question checklist.
3. Try more than one academy if you can. A side-by-side comparison is the fairest test.
4. Do not feel pressured. A good academy lets you decide in your own time.

Common worries parents have

"My child is shy."

That is normal. A good coach makes quiet children comfortable and does not push them to speak too much on the first day.

"My child knows nothing about chess."

Complete beginners are welcome. The coach will start from the basics. See how to play chess.

"My child is very young."

Children can start from age 3 with a patient, playful approach. See chess for 5-year-olds and the best age to start.

"We are not sure about online."

Try one class. Many families are surprised how engaged children are. Read online vs offline classes.

What happens if you enrol

You can choose group classes or private coaching and a class schedule, and from then on you can follow progress through the Parent Portal, with reports and parent-teacher meetings. See pricing for current plans.

Frequently asked questions

Is the demo class really free?

Yes. At The Digital Chessboard Academy the demo class is free with no obligation to join.

Does my child need to know chess before the demo?

No. Complete beginners are welcome, and the coach will adapt the class to your child's level.

How long should I wait before deciding after a demo?

Take the time you need. Talk to your child, compare options and choose when you feel confident.

What should I ask the coach in a demo class?

Ask about the coach's credentials, class size, level placement, curriculum, progress reports, schedule, total cost and refund policy.

Explore The Digital Chessboard Academy

• Courses: Beginner Explorer to Champion Track
• Pricing and plans
• Meet our coaches
• The Parent Portal
• Free FIDE rating calculator
• Chess learning options compared
• Online chess academies compared
• All chess articles

Back to all articles