Our Background
We started ChessMate Camp because we wanted to share the same excitement and growth that chess gave us as kids. What began as casual lessons with a few students turned into a structured 10-week program where young players can learn, compete, and build confidence together. We’ve seen how chess teaches focus, patience, and creativity, lessons that go far beyond the board. Our goal has always been to make the game approachable, fun, and meaningful for every child who joins, whether they’re playing their first match or preparing for tournaments.
Start Your Chess Journey
We currently offer two sessions for each of our three course levels: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced. Choose the class that best fits your schedule and skill level, and join us for a fun and structured 10-week learning experience. All sessions are held at The Ivy Leaf Education Center, located at 16469 Bernardo Center Drive, San Diego, CA 92128.
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Beginner Course Overview
Build Confidence One Move at a Time
Who This Course Is For
Perfect for students new to chess or those still learning the fundamentals. The Beginner Course introduces the board, piece movement, and key rules while building problem-solving and focus through fun challenges.
Course Objectives
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Learn chessboard setup and piece movement.
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Understand check, checkmate, and basic rules.
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Develop early strategic thinking and awareness of threats.
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Introduction to opening principles and simple tactics (forks, pins).
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Build sportsmanship, patience, and focus through guided games.
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Gain confidence to play complete matches independently.
Details | Session A | Session B |
|---|---|---|
Length | 10 weeks | 10 weeks |
Dates | January 25 – March 29, 2026 | April 5 – June 7, 2026 |
Weekly Meetings | Sundays, 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM | Sundays, 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM |
Location | Ivy Leaf Education Center | Ivy Leaf Education Center |
Group Size | Up to 20 students | Up to 20 students |
Total Price | $250 | $250 |
Intermediate Course Overview
Think Deeper. Plan Smarter. Play Stronger.
Who This Course Is For
This course is designed for students who already know how to play full chess games and want to deepen their understanding of strategy and tactics. It’s a great fit for kids who can identify check and checkmate on their own, have played casual games, and are ready to take their skills to the next level.
Course Objectives
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Strengthen understanding of tactics and pattern recognition, learning more advanced tactics
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Introduction to common opening setups including Italian, London, and Sicilian.
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Improve endgame technique, such as king and pawn fundamentals.
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Develop strategic planning and board visualization.
Details | Session A | Session B |
|---|---|---|
Length | 10 weeks | 10 weeks |
Dates | January 25 – March 29, 2026 | April 5 – June 7, 2026 |
Weekly Meetings | Sundays, 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM | Sundays, 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM |
Location | Ivy Leaf Education Center | Ivy Leaf Education Center |
Group Size | Up to 20 students | Up to 20 students |
Total Price | $350 | $350 |
Advanced Course Overview
Think Deeper. Plan Smarter. Play Stronger.
Who This Course Is For
The Advanced Course is designed for experienced players who are confident with all the rules and have a solid understanding of tactical play. Ideal for middle school students or ambitious K–6 players seeking structured, high-level training and competitive experience.
Course Objectives
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Refine opening repertoires and understand how to adapt plans based on the opponent’s responses.
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Strengthen positional understanding through concepts like weak squares, open files, and pawn structure.
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Develop advanced calculation, visualization, and decision-making skills under time pressure.
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Master complex endgames, including minor piece coordination and advanced king and pawn techniques.
Details | Session A | Session B |
|---|---|---|
Length | 10 weeks | 10 weeks |
Dates | January 25 – March 29, 2026 | April 5 – June 7, 2026 |
Weekly Meetings | Sundays, 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM | Sundays, 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM |
Location | Ivy Leaf Education Center | Ivy Leaf Education Center |
Group Size | Up to 20 students | Up to 20 students |
Total Price | $350 | $350 |