Why Checkmate Charlie?
Many beginner chess resources are made for older children or assume that a learner can already read confidently, follow long explanations and sit through a traditional lesson.
Checkmate Charlie takes a different approach. Chess is introduced in small, manageable steps using colourful characters, short videos, memorable songs, interactive games and hands-on activities. Children can learn one idea at a time and practise it in several different ways.
The characters and stories make the lessons fun, but the chess itself is always taught correctly. The aim is not to rush children through the rules or push them into competition. It is to help them understand the game, enjoy practising and feel proud of what they are learning.
Hi, I'm Charlize van Zyl, the creator of Checkmate Charlie.
I am a South African Woman International Master, chess coach, presenter and interviewer. I earned the WIM title at the age of 13, have represented South Africa at the Chess Olympiad, won a silver medal at the African Women's Chess Championship and competed in the FIDE Women's World Cup.
I have taught chess for more than ten years, working with children of different ages and experience levels. Some wanted to become competitive players, while others simply enjoyed solving puzzles, playing games and discovering what the pieces could do.
While teaching younger children, I often found that the available materials were either too advanced, too serious or not made for the way little learners engage with new ideas. I wanted videos that were short enough to hold their attention, worksheets they would be excited to complete and characters that would help them remember the rules.
That idea became Checkmate Charlie.
Meet Charlie and the Chess Pieces
Charlie is the young guide at the centre of the Checkmate Charlie world. Along the way, she meets the King, Queen, Rook, Bishop, Knight and Pawn, each with a distinct personality that helps children remember how the pieces move and what makes them special.
Together, they turn the rules of chess into songs, stories, challenges and games that children can return to again and again.
Queen
Powerful & confident
King
Calm & needs protecting
Bishop
Clever diagonal thinker
Knight
Adventurous — the only jumper!
Rook
Strong & steady
Pawn
Small but mighty
Made for Children and the Adults Helping Them
You do not need to be a chess player to help a child begin.
Checkmate Charlie provides clear materials for parents, teachers and coaches who want to introduce chess without making it complicated. Resources can be used at home, in a classroom, in a chess club or simply as a fun activity to share.
Whether your child is meeting the chess pieces for the first time or is ready to practise independently, there is always something new to explore.
Ready to begin?
Start with the beginner videos, download a worksheet or visit the Practice Playground to try one of Charlie's chess games.
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