Your child’s first tournament at Ippotis: a few tips for parents

Chessboards lined up, clocks beside the pieces and another child sitting opposite: a first chess tournament is a new experience, even when there are familiar faces from the club all around.

Ippotis tournaments in Rhodes bring together all the children in our club, from those taking their first steps to those who already have tournament experience. For parents sharing that first tournament day with their child, a few simple ideas can help make it more enjoyable and a little less daunting.

An experience for every child in our club

A tournament gives children a chance to spend time with their friends from the club, try out what they learn in their lessons and enjoy playing different opponents. We do not need to wait until they win every game before they have a go.

If your child feels nervous, listen to what is worrying them and talk it through together. You can explain that they will have a chance to play, ask questions and learn. Taking part for the first time is an achievement in itself.

Before the games begin

Follow the club’s information about the time and venue, and arrive with a little time to spare so everyone can settle in. Comfortable clothes, water and a small snack for the breaks are all you need for these simple preparations. The evening before, choose rest over a last-minute lesson packed with new advice.

If your child has never used a chess clock or is unsure how the rounds work, ask us at the club. Remind them that they can ask for help if they are unsure how any part of the tournament works. Agree where they will find you when each game finishes.

A few words of encouragement are enough

Before your child sits down at the board, you could say:

“Have a good game! Take your time and do your best. I’ll be here when you finish.”

Avoid setting a target number of wins or a particular place in the final standings. A simple reminder, such as “take a moment to think before you move”, is enough. Give your child room to play and make their own decisions.

While they play, give them space

While the games are in progress, parents wait in a separate area, outside the playing room. We give the children space to play and concentrate. We meet them when their game has finished and listen to how it went.

If a question or disagreement comes up during a game, the child should ask the arbiter or tournament organiser for help. When their game ends, remind them to keep their voices down while other games are still in progress.

And if we do not know how to play chess, we can still support them just as well. Being there for them, being patient and taking an interest in their experience are enough.

After a win or a loss

We can start with “Did you enjoy yourself?” or “Would you like to tell me about your game?” Listen to whatever they want to share, without turning every break into a test.

If they are upset, a simple response might be: “I can see that upset you. Would you like to talk about it, or shall we take a break first?” There is no need to start analysing mistakes straight away.

When they win, celebrate with them while showing respect for their opponent. Whatever the result, we can acknowledge something specific: that they thought carefully, kept trying in a difficult position or showed good manners. Avoid comparing them with the other children.

Between rounds, leave time for water, a snack, a little rest and a chat with friends. Those small moments are part of the day too.

What we hope they take away from their first tournament

On the way home, we can ask: “What did you enjoy most today?” If your child wants to, talk about a moment that stayed with them or something they learnt. There will be time to discuss the games more calmly in a future lesson.

If you have any questions, speak to us at the club or to your child’s coach.

We want our children to enjoy chess, their friendships and the effort they put in. We hope they leave with happy memories and the desire to sit down at the board again.

The main photograph and the photograph of the game are from Ippotis’ 6th Junior Rapid Chess Tournament, held on 23 May 2026.