Beginner
Pawn Academy
Ages 5-7 · 8 weeks
A playful introduction to chess. Children learn how each piece moves, basic checkmates, and good board habits through games and stories.
From $299Details
USCF-rated chess programs for ages 5-17
Where young minds
master the royal game.
Premier chess training for young minds ages 5-17. Develop strategy, focus, and confidence — one move at a time. Live coaching, tournament prep, and analytical thinking that builds champions — on the board and beyond.
- Students Coached
- 500+
- Tournament Wins
- 120+
- Program Levels
- 6
Now EnrollingSpring 2026 Cohort
USCF RatedTournament Track
Why DOM Chess
A modern academy built on classical foundations.
We blend rigorous chess training with a warm, kid-first culture that keeps students challenged, supported, and excited to improve.
Titled Coaches
Lessons led by USCF-rated coaches and FIDE-titled instructors with years of teaching young players.
Cognitive Growth
Curriculum designed to sharpen focus, memory, and decision-making that transfers far beyond chess.
Tournament Pathway
Clear progression from scholastic events to USCF rated tournaments — with travel & registration support.
Small Classes
Tight 6:1 student-to-coach ratio so every child gets feedback, analysis, and personalized goals.
Confidence First
We celebrate effort over results. Kids learn to lose gracefully, win humbly, and grow continuously.
Safe Learning Space
Background-checked staff, secure facility, and a welcoming community that parents trust.
Programs
Six levels. One clear path to mastery.
Every student starts where they are and grows from there — Pawn through Tournament Track.
Beginner
Knight Strategy
Ages 8-10 · 10 weeks
Students transition from learning the rules to thinking strategically. Tactics, opening principles, and pattern recognition come to life.
From $379Details
Intermediate
Bishop Tactics
Ages 9-12 · 12 weeks
An intermediate program focused on calculation, tactical motifs, and middle-game planning. Includes weekly puzzle sets.
From $449Details
Weekly Schedule
Find a time that fits your week.
Classes run after school and on Saturdays at our Waltham office, with in-person and remote options available for families who need flexibility.
Monday – Friday: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM EST
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM EST
Mon
Monday
- Pawn Academy
- Bishop Tactics
Tue
Tuesday
- Knight Strategy
- Queen's Mastery
Wed
Wednesday
- Pawn Academy
- Rook & Endgame
Thu
Thursday
- Knight Strategy
Fri
Friday
- Bishop Tactics
- Open Club
Sat
Saturday
- Rook & Endgame
- Queen's Mastery
- Tournament Track
Cohorts begin every 8–14 weeks. Mid-cohort enrollment available on request.
What Parents Say
Trusted by families across Greater Boston.
"My daughter went from never having played to winning her first scholastic tournament in a single semester. The coaches are wonderful with kids."
Michelle K.
"My daughter went from never having played to winning her first scholastic tournament in a single semester. The coaches are wonderful with kids."
Michelle K.
Parent · Lexington, MA
"The program has structure, warmth, and real follow-through. Our son talks through positions with much more patience now."
Daniel R.
Parent · Waltham, MA
"The tournament prep is fantastic. They review every game and help my son understand his mistakes. His confidence has soared."
Priya S.
Parent · Belmont, MA
Your child's first move is the most important.
Reserve a spot in the Spring 2026 cohort. We'll guide them from beginner to tournament-ready, one game at a time.