Chess software for kids

[Numbers Nerd]

I just purchased for my kids, on the advice of an article in the NY Times, a software package called Learn to Play Chess with Fritz and Chesster 2 - Chess in the Black Castle. My 9-year old daughter, who had just a passing interest in the game, seems hooked. The package has lots of animated drills that teach opening, middle and endgame strategy, without getting too bogged down in memorization.

Any other packages you folks know about?

[Klaymen]

My son Ryan learned to play chess at age 6 using the prequel to the software you purchased. It is excellent for teaching the basics of the game. He played Part 2 for awhile and enjoyed that too, but hasn't been quite as hooked. Results may vary, but Ryan now has four trophies on a shelf on the living room from tournaments held every two to four weeks in the Twin Cities. I highly recommend you give your child the experience of chess competition.

There is other stuff out there for sure, but I have been hesitant to purchase it because I want it to be at Ryan's level. Perhaps if you go to one of these competitions you can speak with the coaches from various schools and see what they recommend. My son doesn't have a chess club at school.