Curriculum Shop Instructor Directory Articles Why Chess? Contact Free Sample Lesson

We Know Chess. Education, Equipment & Community.

Smart Moves is a welcoming chess community, created by chess players with a passion for chess and an enduring love of sharing knowledge. From our Preschool and Early Learning Curriculum to our coach directory, classroom supplies, and down-to-earth guides - we bring people together through chess.

Find an Instructor → Explore Curricula → Visit Chess Shop →
Quick Links:
Find an Instructor • Visit Chess Shop • Player Guides • Preschool & Early Learning Curriculum
Players of all ages gathered around chess boards in a community chess tournament
Bringing People Together Through Chess Since 2013

A welcoming chess community created by players and coaches with a love for the game.

2013 Founded in Durham, NC by longtime chess lovers
8,000+ Instructional hours delivered
50,000+ Visitors Reached
4 Pillars Coaches • Schools • Families • Resources
100% Built out of a love of chess

How Can Smart Moves Help You?

We bring together resources for every chess player - young or old; new or experienced.

Classroom Curricula & School Licensing

Complete, easy to implement Preschool and Early Learning Curriculum designed for preschools, elementary schools, and homeschool co-ops.

  • Preschool & Elementary Tracks: Structured, age-appropriate 24–36 week lesson series.
  • Simple for Any Educator: Word-for-word teacher scripts with zero prior chess skills required.
  • Replenishment & Support: Annual subscription management and direct board replenishment.
Explore the Early Learning Curriculum → Download Free Sample Lesson

Instructor Directory & Coaching Network

A matchmaking platform connecting chess instructors with local parents, schools seeking coaches, and enrichment clubs.

  • Coach Profiles: Get discovered by parents and schools seeking private, group, and after-school lessons.
  • School Program Placement: Match with preschools and elementary schools needing experienced instructors.
  • Searchable and Relevant: Search by location, age, method of delivery and more.
Find an Instructor → Join Coach Directory

Chess Equipment, Supplies & Gifts

Durable, classroom-tested chess gear for schools, clubs, tournament players, and thoughtful gift seekers of all ages.

  • Tournament Gear: High-quality pieces, roll-up vinyl boards, and clocks.
  • Club Bundles & Merch: Giant chess sets, demonstration boards, student totes, hoodies, and gifts.
  • Chess Merch & Gifts: Find a great gift for any chess lover - or yourself!.
Visit the Chess Shop → Chess Gift Buying Guide

Families in Smart Moves Schools

Does your child participate in a Smart Moves Preschool and Early Learning Curriculum program at their school? Stay connected with their learning journey and foster enthusiasm at home.

  • Story & Character Guides: Learn more about the lessons and stories your child is learning.
  • At-Home Practice Activities: Printable coloring sheets, mini-games, and activities.
  • Sportsmanship & Resilience: Practical advice on nurturing emotional growth through chess.
Parent Resource Guide → Why Movement Chess?

Chess Guides and Teaching Insights from Experts

A growing library of chess instruction specifically tailored for educators, parents, and players of all ages.

  • Pedagogical Wisdom: Over 10 years of classroom strategies, mistakes to avoid, and teaching tips.
  • Basic Strategy for Every Age: Board setup, opening principles, clock etiquette, and AI learning tools.
  • Tournament Operations: Budgeting, scheduling, and running stress-free scholastic events.
Browse All Articles → Learn to Play Chess

Featured Chess Strategy & Teaching Guides

Practical teaching advice drawn from over a decade of hands-on instruction.

Browse All 13 Articles →