Guppies Chess
A playful first step into chess for curious beginners ages 4–6. Mini-games, movement, repetition, and encouragement make learning chess fun.
Small Moves. Big Discoveries.
Guppies began when curious younger siblings at Hampton Roads Scholastic Chess Club wanted to join the fun. HRCA created a special group where young children could learn at their own pace.
Today, patient instruction, mini-games, and playful practice help our youngest learners build a foundation for enjoying chess. Several early Guppies later appeared on US Chess Top 100 lists for their age groups.
Is Guppies the Right Fit?
Beginners ages 4–6 Generally Pre-K through first grade. No experience is needed; children may also know a few pieces but still need help playing.
Ready for the next step? Students who master the basics or age out may be ready for Seahorses, Minnows, another beginner class, or HRSCC. Ask us about placement.
What Will My Child Learn?
Meet the Pieces
Learn their names, movements, and special abilities.
Set Up the Board
Practice the board and pieces’ starting positions.
Check & Checkmate
Protect the king and recognize how a game ends.
Mini-Games
Build skills through short, focused, playful challenges.
Think Before Moving
Practice attention, planning, and problem-solving.
Good Sportsmanship
Take turns, show respect, and be a good chess partner.
Grown-Ups Join the Adventure
Learning together makes the experience even better. Adult participation helps children stay engaged and gives families ways to practice the week’s skills at home.
A parent, guardian, or other responsible adult must remain in the classroom with each Guppy. Repetition and encouragement help young learners thrive.
Schedule, Location & Tuition
When
Tuesdays · 5:15–6:00 p.m.
See session dates and current availability below.
Where
King’s Grant Presbyterian Church
745 Little Neck Road
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Tuition
$140 per session · ChessKid Gold included
$20 nonrefundable registration fee
Autopay required; late-registration fees may apply.
September 15–November 17, 2026
9 scheduled classes
January 12–March 23, 2027
9 scheduled classes
Ready to Join the Guppies?
Small classes. A welcoming start. Find your session below.
Review dates, ages, and tuition.
A link means online enrollment is open.
Follow the prompts and add payment details.
Online enrollment is open for that class.
Enrollment may not yet be open, may have closed, or the class may be full.
Guppies Classes & Availability
Check both openings and the registration link. Available spaces do not necessarily mean enrollment has started. If no classes appear, contact HRCA about the next session.