Testimonials

What school officials are saying

“I recommend this program for any school looking at building self esteem, improving peer relationships and challenging students to further develop their critical thinking skills. This program is a winner!”
~ David Crichton, Principal, Market Lane Public School, Toronto

“This program has been a windfall for the students at Regent Park. The students are having great fun learning the game of chess while at the same time picking up valuable life skills. Every school in the country should be so fortunate to have such a winning program as this!”
~ Jeffrey Crivellaro, Special Needs Assistant, Regent Park / Duke of York P.S., Toronto

“Not only have the children in our school learned the game of chess, but also Ted and his instructors have instilled a sense of fair play, and cooperation. Ted incorporates social and thinking skills strategies into the program that challenges and motivates the students. The students have had…the opportunity to play against other schools and develop good sportsmanship. I recommend this program for any school looking at building self esteem and peer relationships. This program is a winner!”
~ John Duwyn, Principal, Faywood Arts-Based Curriculum Public School, Toronto

“[The] program not only delivered opportunities for the children to practice thinking about the consequences of their choices, but went above and beyond. Through teaching the children chess, we witnessed the budding of interest in a game the children can enjoy throughout their lives, which increased their ability to focus and pay attention.”
~ Karen Sewell, Director, Camp Wimodausis, Child Development Institute, Toronto

What parents are saying

“[Parker] has been to many summer camps but I think it is fair to say that this is his favourite one yet.  It seems to be a perfect blend of mental, physical and creative activity and he comes home everyday so excited and anxious to tell us about his activities that day and his chess matches.  Thank you again for putting together such a great camp.”
~ Brad and Harue Macdonald, Parents

“Thanks so much for the photos and a great week of camp! Aaron thoroughly enjoyed it and spent the weekend challenging us to games of chess, proudly showing off new moves and knowledge he learned from you. He also loved the other activities – especially archery. We were really impressed with the level of organisation and range of activities you offered. Looking forward to continuing our association with the Chess Institute – hopefully through chess club at school this coming year. Thanks again!”
~ Andrea Quesnelle, Parent

“Thank you also for making camp safe and fun for Joshua once again. He had a great time. You do an amazing job.”
~ Roxana Crane, Parent

“I think that [Simon’s] involvement in the chess club has been one of the most character building activities that [he] has had during his eleven years of life. He has learned so much more than simply learning how to play chess. I know that other parents feel as we do but I wanted to extend our gratitude and thanks to you.”
~ Donna Gray, Parent

“Thank you for all the hard work you commit to this enterprise. As a parent I truly appreciate it and Oliver loves to play chess in a way that is very healthy (he just likes it, it’s not stressful or seriously competitive – just fun) and it is thanks to you.
~ Susan Philpott, Parent