Chess is a multifaceted game. We learn strategy, including learning to plan ahead, setting goals and achieving them, adjusting our plans when circumstances dictate, learning to have failures and adjust to them, coming from behind, and winning and losing graciously. Sounds like life doesn't it? Students who play chess develop skills that overflow into their academics. Studies show that 80% of students who take chess have higher test scores on their SATs and CRCIs. It also has been shown to enhance other areas of brain function including art and music. I have found that students who take chess spend less time with video games and other electronic distractions and are able to focus better in many other areas. Most children even learn to sit still and be quiet. Imagine that. Chess is also an area that any person, no matter their age, gender, size, abilities or disabilities can compete because the board and pieces are of equal value on each side. It's what you do with them. It's great, clean competition.