#InfiniteChess – International Chess Federation

Shift your perspective: FIDE Infinite Chess hosts “An Atypical Day” for autism awareness

editor_d — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 23:14:09 +0000

In celebration of International Autism Awareness Day, the FIDE Infinite Chess project invites you to an online event that goes beyond the board to explore the real lives of families living with autism.

This April 4, is a step into a world of unique perspectives, challenges, and triumphs. The FIDE Infinite Chess project is proud to present “An Atypical Day,” a special awareness talk dedicated to fostering understanding and sparking meaningful change within the chess community and beyond.

Date: April 4
Time: 12:00 CEST
Location: Online (Link available upon registration)
Registration link: https://forms.gle/dA7TRwSRyCLzksoM6

While chess is often hailed as a universal language, the Infinite Chess project recognizes that the journey to the board is different for everyone. This event will pull back the curtain on that journey, placing the spotlight not just on the game, but on the incredible families who navigate the world of autism every single day.

The core of “An Atypical Day” is a powerful dialogue. We will hear firsthand accounts from the people who live this reality daily: parents and coaches. They will share their intimate experiences, painting a vivid picture of life beyond the diagnosis. We will explore the central theme of the event: the journey of families living with autism.

What does a typical (or atypical) day actually look like for them? What are the unspoken challenges they face from morning until night? How do they cope, adapt, and find joy in the midst of a world not always designed for them?

Most importantly, we will delve into a story of hope and integration. We will ask the crucial question: How have their lives changed since joining the Infinite Chess community? Has the structured, logical, yet creative world of chess provided a new outlet, a safe space, or a bridge to connection? We aim to uncover the transformative power of inclusion, one move at a time.

Following these personal stories, the floor will open for a vital Q&A session. This is a unique opportunity for participants to ask questions or share their own concerns in a safe and supportive environment.

To guide this discussion and provide professional insight, we are honored to welcome a distinguished specialist: Gulzhanar Akhaeva – Defectologist, Master of Special Pedagogy, Sensory Therapist, and Head of the Psychological and Pedagogical Correction Office No. 5 under the Akimat of Astana.

Gulzhanar will offer expert perspectives on the topics raised by the families, helping to bridge the gap between personal experience and professional understanding.

Join us

“An Atypical Day” is more than just a talk; it is an invitation to shift your perspective. Whether you are a chess enthusiast, an educator, a parent, or simply someone who wants to understand the world a little better, your presence matters.

Let’s come together to listen, learn, and champion a world where every mind can thrive.

How to participate:

The event will take place online on April 4 at 12:00 CEST.
Registration details: https://forms.gle/dA7TRwSRyCLzksoM6

About FIDE Infinite Chess:

The FIDE Infinite Chess project is dedicated to making chess accessible and beneficial for individuals with autism and other special needs, fostering inclusion and cognitive development through the royal game. The project currently thrives in 28 countries, supporting more than 270 children with autism and co-occurring conditions, and welcomes new interested families from around the world.

FIDE Infinite Chess Project finds a kindred spirit in Los Angeles

editor_d — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 11:34:54 +0000

On a recent weekend in the Greater Los Angeles area, the air in the tournament hall wasn’t just filled with the quiet clicks of chess clocks and the scratch of pencils on score sheets. It was filled with a powerful sense of purpose. The occasion was the 2026 Greater LA School Chess League, a tournament that, in its second year, has more than just grown in size – it has blossomed into a profound partnership between a local non-profit and a global movement for social good.

Organized by the Kindness On Board Foundation (KOBF) and co-hosted by the Diamond Bar High School Chess Club, this year’s event was a resounding success. Participation surged from 26 teams in 2025 to an impressive 46 teams, representing 32 schools from across the sprawling metropolis. But what truly set this tournament apart was its heart. This year, the Kindness On Board Foundation proudly hosted the event as a fundraiser for FIDE’s Infinite Chess Project, a global initiative dedicated to teaching chess to children with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities.

The Los Angeles chess community responded with characteristic generosity. Thanks to the contributions of participating families, the event raised nearly $7,000 to support the Infinite Chess Project’s mission. For Jonathan Chen, founder and director of the Kindness On Board Foundation, the event was a perfect reflection of his organization’s name.

“This tournament is more than a competition – it is a celebration of kindness, teamwork, and commitment,” said Jonathan Chen. “We are proud of what we are building together and look forward to continuing this tradition in the years to come.”

The connection with the Infinite Chess Project was made tangible by the presence of two of its key figures. Traveling from Canada was Ala Mishchanka, a FIDE Infinite Chess Project ambassador and co-author of the project’s handbook. With over 21 years of experience as a Special Needs Educational Assistant in Toronto, Mishchanka brought not only her official role but also a lifetime of on-the-ground expertise. She delivered an inspiring and informative lecture to the KOBF’s volunteers on supporting children with autism, a session that was deeply appreciated by the local team.

In her opening speech Ala Mishchanka shared the heartfelt origin of the story of the Infinite chess project, which began in 2019 at private chess school in Belarus. Inspired and started by remarkable chess professionals Anastasia Sorokina and Natalia Popova the project started with the simple question from a parent: could his son with ASD also join the chess lessons? In 2021 Anastasia Sorokina expanded the project and became the leader of the International Infinite Chess movement.

From that moment, a global family was born. “Today, 28 countries have joined the Infinite Chess family,” Ala Mishchanka told the assembled players and families. She highlighted the project’s comprehensive achievements, including a unique methodological guide for teachers and parents, which she co-authored and which has now been translated into seven languages.

“Our mission,” she explained, “is to unlock the unique potential of these extraordinary children, using the infinite, predictable logic of chess to build foundational skills for life.”

The virtual presence of Maria Tamkovich, Secretary of the FIDE Social Commission and coordinator of FIDE Infinite Chess, further underscored the international collaboration. Maria’s words of encouragement resonated with the volunteers, young players, and their families, reinforcing that they were part of something much larger than a single local tournament.

The event was a testament to grassroots organisation and community spirit. Jonathan Chen extended sincere thanks to Diamond Bar High School and Chess Club advisor Eric Sorensen, whose unwavering support over three months of preparation was instrumental.

As the tournament drew to a close, the focus shifted from the scores on the board to the impact off it. In a moving ceremony, Ala Mishchanka took the stage to present one of FIDE’s highest social recognitions. She explained that the FIDE Social Chess Award was established during the FIDE Year of Social Chess to recognize individuals and organizations making outstanding contributions to the social impact of chess. Its primary aim is to highlight efforts that go beyond competitive play, demonstrating how chess can serve as a powerful tool for inclusion, education, empowerment, and community building.

“By recognizing exemplary contributions, the award encourages national federations to support social chess initiatives, celebrate local heroes, and share inspiring stories that demonstrate chess’s broader societal value,” Ala Mishchanka announced. “And now, I have the great honour to present one of FIDE’s highest recognitions for such a hero – the Kindness On Board Foundation.”

She highlighted the global impact of the foundation’s support: “Thanks to your support, Infinite Chess students in South Africa, Gambia, Ukraine, and Sri Lanka have received not only additional groups and chess lessons but also new equipment and supportive materials. Thank you very much on behalf of FIDE and all Infinite Chess partners.” The award was a powerful culmination of the day’s events, cementing the partnership between the local foundation and the global initiative.

The 2026 Greater LA School Chess League proved that a chess tournament can be a powerful platform for change. By weaving together competition, fundraising, and education, the Kindness On Board Foundation and the Infinite Chess Project have built a lasting bond, demonstrating that the most meaningful victories are the ones we achieve together.

Checkmate Grants: Unlocking Funding Opportunities – Seminar announced by FIDE Infinite Chess

editor_d — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 11:05:46 +0000

FIDE Infinite Chess is pleased to announce an online seminar, “Checkmate Grants: Unlocking Funding Opportunities” (Friday, December 20, 2025 | 12:00–15:00 CET). This event is designed for social project leaders, chess educators, NGO representatives, and anyone interested in driving social impact through chess.

This three-hour session will equip participants with the knowledge and confidence needed to identify, approach, and secure funding for chess-based social initiatives. Speakers will include experienced project leaders who have successfully obtained European and Spanish national grants, as well as representatives from major companies that support social-impact programmes.

Attendees will learn how to:

Craft compelling proposals
Build meaningful partnerships
Understand the criteria funders use when selecting projects

Real-life case studies of funded initiatives will provide practical insights and inspiration.

Key Takeaways:

How to identify potential funders for social chess projects
Practical tips for preparing strong grant applications
What funders look for in impactful proposals
Case studies of successful chess-related social projects

Registration: https://forms.gle/ez8MrkEUUVK8ex8NA

Join us to discover new opportunities and empower your chess initiatives through sustainable funding.

About FIDE Infinite Chess
The FIDE Infinite Chess Program is a global initiative that aims to make chess accessible and inclusive for individuals with neurodiverse conditions such as autism, ADHD, Down syndrome, and other developmental challenges. Its philosophy is that chess is more than a game; it’s a universal language of logic, focus, and connection that can be adapted for every learner. Through sensory-friendly environments, adaptive teaching, and compassion-centered mentorship, Infinite Chess nurtures both cognitive and social-emotional skills, helping children build abilities for life beyond the board.

With the support of the FIDE Planning and Development Commission (PDC), the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and the Kindness on Board Foundation, the FIDE Infinite Chess project is now active in 28 countries, serving over 270 children with autism and co-occurring conditions.

The project operates in stages from January/February to May and from September to November/December, with a break during the summer. During Stage 7 (January/February–May 2025), chess lessons were held in 25 countries.

Acknowledgements
We wish to extend our profound appreciation to the dedicated team behind the groundbreaking FIDE Infinite Chess project. Their vision, hard work, and collaborative spirit have been instrumental in bringing this ambitious initiative to life.

Our special gratitude goes to:

Dana Reizniece, Project Supervisor and Deputy Chair of the FIDE Management Board, for her strategic oversight and unwavering support, which provided the essential foundation for the project’s success.
Anastasia Sorokina, Project Leader and Chair of the FIDE Women’s Commission (WOM), for her dynamic leadership and passionate commitment, which steered the project from concept to reality.
Maria Tamkovich, Project Coordinator, for her meticulous coordination and tireless efforts in managing countless operational details.

Finally, our gratitude extends to every member of the FIDE Infinite Chess family. The support, cooperation, and shared belief from this entire community have been invaluable. This achievement is a testament to what we can accomplish together.

Infinite Chess official website: infinitechess.fide.com/

Third annual Autism Talks held in Almaty, Kazakhstan

editor_d — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 16:57:13 +0000

On April 6, Almaty, Kazakhstan held the third annual Autism Talks as part of the Asian Championship of Zone 3.4. The event, dedicated to the World Autism Awareness Day (observed every year on April 2) celebrated inspiring stories of parents of special children.

The event was organized by Kazakhstan Chess Federation (KFC), the national partner of the International Chess Federation (FIDE), as part of the FIDE’s Infinite Chess project.

The FIDE Infinite Chess initiative aims to develop inclusive chess education, and its first steps in Kazakhstan began in November 2024 at Special Boarding School No. 1. In 2025, the project expanded to Almaty, launching at the “Autism Pobedim!” Center, where international coach Vitaliy Kozyak trains two groups of students.

The program featured heartfelt presentations by parents, specialists, public figures, and experts. The speackerskers included: Aruzhan Sain, Aliya Arkharova, Zhanna Kalieva, Rustam Kairbekov, Madina Nurkenova, and others. The meeting was moderated by Dinara Gaplan.

As part of the expert session, the following professionals shared their knowledge and experience: psychiatrist Asel Ibraeva, behavioral analyst Asiya Kizatova, FIDE Infinite Chess ambassador Nadezhda Kravchuk, psychologist Bakyttygul Akhmetjanova, and UN volunteer Maulen Akhmetov.

“In collaboration with FIDE and the Bolashak Foundation, we at the Kazakhstan Chess Federation are committed to systematically developing inclusive initiatives. We deeply believe that chess is a language that does not require words, but has the power to unite. That is why we launched the Infinite Chess project, opening new horizons for children with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities,” said Darmen Sadvakasov, Vice President of KCF.

The event concluded with a simultaneous exhibition for children led by Grandmaster and the 2024 World Junior Champion, Kazybek Nogerbek, followed by a prize draw for partners that included chess sets, books, certificates, and courses.

Photos: Yevgeniy Kim

“Infinite Spectrum: Awareness and Recognition” – Follow-up on celebrating autism inclusion through chess and community

editor_d — Sun, 06 Apr 2025 15:35:50 +0000

On April 6, the Infinite Chess initiative hosted “Infinite Spectrum: Awareness and Recognition”, a transformative online event that united global advocates, educators, and families to advance autism awareness and inclusion. With powerful speeches, heartfelt stories, and the premiere of an exclusive project video, the meetup illuminated how chess and community support can unlock potential for children on the spectrum.

The event began with inspiring words from Dana Reizniece (Deputy Chair of the FIDE Management Board and Project Supervisor), André Vögtlin (Chair of the FIDE Social Commission), and Anastasia Sorokina (Chair of FIDE Women’s Commission and Infinite Chess Project Leader). Their messages underscored FIDE’s commitment to leveraging chess as a tool for social impact.

A highlight of the opening was the premiere of “FIDE Infinite Chess – A Visionary Approach to Modern Chess“, created with immense support of Kazakhstan Chess Federation a 10-minute video showcasing the project’s mission, strategic partnerships, and real-world impact. The film set the stage for discussions on how chess transcends borders and abilities.

Key moments that inspired action

1. Dismantling Stigma with Practical Solutions

Doreen Dia, Occupational Therapist and CEO/founder of iPromise Rehab and Care Services in The Gambia, shared actionable strategies to combat societal stigma. Her insights emphasized:

The role of community education in fostering acceptance.
Adaptive learning techniques for neurodiverse children.
How local advocacy creates systemic change.

“Breaking stigma starts with small, courageous conversations,” she reminded attendees.

2. Chess as a Catalyst for Growth

Ritha James Makame, Life Skills Coordinator at the Ilyanna Foundation and Infinite Chess teacher, revealed the challenges and triumphs of teaching chess to children with autism. Her approach—rooted in patience and creativity—demonstrated how the game:

Enhances cognitive flexibility and problem-solving.
Builds social connections through structured interaction.
Empowers teachers and parents to collaborate effectively.

3. A Mother’s Unwavering Love

Renata Nair, mother of Teegan (a student in the Infinite Chess project, South Africa), moved the audience with her raw, hopeful journey. She described:

The pivotal role chess played in Teegan’s confidence and focus.
How community support alleviates isolation for families.
Why inclusive programs like Infinite Chess are lifelines.

“Every small victory is a testament to what’s possible,” Renata shared.

Honoring Champions: The Infinite Chess partners awards

The event culminated in the Infinite Chess Partners Awards, celebrating unsung heroes in autism advocacy. Winners—nominated included:

Pioneer Partner – Pep Suárez, Olimpia Chess Academy (Menorca), Luis Blanso de la Cruz, Madrid Chess Academy, Club Ajedrez 64 Villalba (Spain), Sharon Whatley, Gibraltar Chess Association (Gibraltar), Franck Droin (France).
Regional Growth Leader – Pep Suárez, Olimpia Chess Academy (Menorca), Erick Takawira, KZN Chess Academy (South Africa), Kanthi Sarjoo, The Browns’ School (South Africa), Sharon Whatley, Gibraltar Chess Association (Gibraltar).
Accuracy and Detail Excellence – Viesturs Kapče (Latvia), Buddhi Nirukshi Panagoda (UK), Rita Wu, Taiwan Youth Chess Association (Taiwan).
Event Participation Champion – Melodi Dincel (Turkey), Charomova Evguenia (New Zealand), Susana Gonçalves, Association Chess2All (Portugal).
Innovation Leader – Ng Teck Sen, Bumblebee Training Centre (Malaysia), Anu Bayar, ABChess Academy (Mongolia), Keunae Choe, EBC Foundation (USA).
Outstanding Support – Luciano Gomes de Sousa (Brazil), Christina Aziz (The Gambia), Viviane Bejjani-Aziz (The Gambia), Elly O. Goro, IYANNA FOUNDATION (Tanzania).
Collaboration Excellence – Kazakhstan Chess Federation, Kamal Daoudi, INSTITUTION TAHAR SEBTI (Morocco), Dalila Mougaa, INSTITUTION TAHAR SEBTI (Morocco), Albanian Chess Federation.
Impactful Communicator – Dr. Ankita Sanghavi, Innocent Times School (India), Netra Patkar, ZEP Rehabilitation Centre (India), Mark Bryan (Cyprus).

The awards underscored the power of collective effort in driving inclusion.

“What an inspiring event! Today, we’ve shared knowledge, stories, and hope. Let’s carry this momentum forward—keep advocating, connecting, and uplifting. A huge thank you to our speakers, attendees, and the Infinite Chess team. Stay tuned for future events, and remember: every step counts in creating a more inclusive world. Until next time—take care, stay inspired, and keep shining!” were Maria Tamkovich’s closing words.

Carrying the Momentum Forward

Watch & Share the Infinite Chess video to spread awareness.

Recorded video of the online meetup.

Join the Movement via #InfiniteChess on social media. Support inclusive chess programs in your community.

A heartfelt thank you to all speakers, attendees, and the Infinite Chess team for making this event a milestone in autism advocacy. Together, we’re proving that chess is more than a game—it’s a universal language of opportunity.

“The spectrum is infinite, and so is our potential to make a difference.”

Infinite Chess website: infinitechess.fide.com/

Autism awareness: Understanding and supporting the spectrum globally

editor_d — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 04:40:00 +0000

Every April world celebrates World Autism Month, beginning with the United Nations-sanctioned World Autism Awareness Day on April 2.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects millions of children worldwide across all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups and is nearly four times more common in boys than in girls. The condition presents significant challenges for parents, who often face limited access to care, a lack of treatment options, and the stigma associated with autism. However, thanks to parental advocacy and advances in scientific research, autism is now much better understood.

Autism varies greatly from person to person—no two individuals with autism are alike, which is why it is referred to as a spectrum. Common characteristics include difficulties with verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities.

“With globally estimated prevalence of about 1 in 100 children, some countries report higher rates, with approximately 1 per 100,000 people. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to improving outcomes for individuals with autism,” shares Ala Mishchanka, special needs educational assistant, co-author of the Infinite chess Handbook (Canada).

Chess as a tool for inclusion

At Infinite Chess, we believe in the power of chess to foster inclusion, support, and growth for everyone, especially those on the autism spectrum.

“You might have learned that autism is not a disability; it is a special ability. But how to make use of it? And our answer would be to use chess as a discipline that might not only give enjoyment, satisfaction and pleasure to these special kids but also improve their physical and mental wellbeing,” noted Deputy Chair of FIDE Management Board and Infinite Chess project Supervisor Dana Reizniece.

Creating supportive environments for individuals with autism involves understanding their unique needs and strengths. Chess offers numerous benefits—it provides a structured environment that helps improve focus, enhances cognitive skills, and promotes social interaction.

“Some sports can be challenging for kids with autism spectrum; that’s why it is important to help children choose sports they are likely to enjoy and excel at”, says Maria Tamkovich, Infinite Chess project coordinator. “But not every sport requires high-level communication and cooperation and could be a great match for children with autism. Chess is definitely one of them.”

Here are some ways chess can be particularly beneficial:

Structured Environment: The clear rules and predictable nature of chess can be comforting for individuals with autism, providing a sense of stability and order.
Cognitive Development: Chess encourages strategic thinking, problem-solving, and memory enhancement, which are valuable skills for everyone.
Social Interaction: Playing chess can help improve communication and social skills, offering a platform for positive interactions and relationship-building.

Anastasia Sorokina, leader of the Infinite Chess project, emphasizes: “Autism awareness is about more than just understanding the disorder; it’s about fostering acceptance and inclusion worldwide. By educating ourselves and others, we can create a more inclusive society where individuals with autism are valued and supported. This is one of the main goals for our project.”

Autism Awareness month events

To celebrate Autism Awareness Month, Infinite Chess, in cooperation with the Kazakhstan Chess Federation and numerous partners worldwide, is organizing a series of events to promote inclusion and support for individuals with autism.

Online Chess Meetup on April 6 at 12:00 CEST, zoom: Hosting educators, parents, and tutors on how to increase awareness and use chess as a tool for supporting individuals with autism and co-occurring conditions. Register now and be part of a community that believes in the infinite potential of every child!
https://forms.gle/S3tBkuaziZqNJt6KA
Offline Autism Talks, 6 April at 10:00, Almaty, Kazakhstan: Encouraging our community to share their own stories and experiences with autism and chess, fostering a sense of belonging and support.
Simulations chess exhibition for kids in support of the Autism Awareness month in frames of Asian Zonal Chess Championship on 6 April 2025.

Get involved and spread the word!

We invite all members of the chess family to join us in celebrating Autism Awareness Month. If you are planning any activities or events, please share them with us so we can highlight them on our social media platforms.

Let’s work together to create a more inclusive and supportive community.

About Infinite Chess Project

During five year of work, the Infinite Chess united 28 countries from all continents and has brought together over 110 coaches, teachers, and tutors, as well as 280 children with autism. Eight educational online and offline seminars were conducted for more than 250 participants from 95 countries.

Official website: infinitechess.fide.com/

Online meetup “Infinite Spectrum: Awareness and Recognition” announced

editor_d — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 19:59:12 +0000

In the Year of Social Chess, FIDE continues its series of events aimed at promoting and developing chess-related social projects.

We are thrilled to invite you to the “Infinite Spectrum: Awareness and Recognition” meetup, a transformative online event focusing on autism awareness.

This event is your chance to be part of a movement that champions the development and inclusion of children on the spectrum. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn, share, and make a lasting impact.

Date: Sunday, April 6, 2025
Time: 12:00 (CEST)
Location: Online
Platform: Zoom

Registration details: Participation is free for everyone interested in the topic, including teachers, coaches, tutors, parents, and more.

Event Description: Join us for an inspiring online meetup, “Infinite Spectrum: Awareness and Recognition”, as we shine a spotlight on autism awareness. This event is your chance to be part of a movement that champions the development and inclusion of children on the spectrum.

Hear from experts: Engage with teachers, coaches, and tutors who are making a difference in the lives of children with autism.

Parents’ stories: Listen to heartfelt stories from parents who have navigated the challenging yet heroic journey of raising children with autism. Their resilience and dedication will leave you inspired and empowered.

Connect and share: Build connections with a community of passionate individuals who are committed to fostering a supportive environment for children with autism.

Infinite Chess Partners Award: At the end of the meetup, we will honor outstanding individuals and organizations with the Infinite Chess Partners Award by nomination. This recognition celebrates their exceptional contributions to autism awareness and support.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn, share, and make a lasting impact.

Registration form: https://forms.gle/S3tBkuaziZqNJt6KA

Breaking the limits: How FIDE’s Infinite Chess project helps people with autism

KN — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 23:58:38 +0000

Five years since its launch, the Infinite Chess project has expanded globally, offering valuable insights to the chess community on its potential to enhance the lives of individuals on the autism spectrum

The World Health Organization notes that autism affects one in every 100 children worldwide. In 2007, The United Nations General Assembly established April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) to raise awareness and provide opportunities for people with autism not only to survive but also to prosper. In 2019, FIDE answered the call and launched the Infinite Chess project aiming to help children with autism thrive using chess as a vehicle for developing important life skills.

What began as a pilot program in 2019 has grown to encompass 19 countries worldwide, including Albania, Latvia, France, Spain, Portugal, UK, Gibraltar, Mongolia, Turkey, Morocco, Cyprus, India, Gambia, South Africa, Tanzania, Brazil, Taiwan, Malaysia, and New Zealand. Another six countries are expected to join this year: Jamaica, Botswana, Nigeria, Pakistan, Maldives, and Puerto Rico.

Today, the project equips autistic individuals with essential life skills through free training and resources, promoting their acceptance and contribution to society.

In March 2024, a three-day seminar at the Second International Congress of Chess, Education, and Health showcased studies on the project’s impact. The results confirmed that chess has helped children with autism improve their socio-emotional well-being and build a stronger foundation for life skills.

In the same month, the Spanish island of Menorca hosted the Second International Congress of Chess, Education, and Health as part of the FIDE100 Celebration program. The congress brought together experts in the fields of chess, education, and health. The three-day seminar showcased studies and experiences from different parts of the world about the role of chess in education and health, including the Infinite Chess project. The results showed that chess has helped children with autism improve their socio-emotional welfare and provided them with a stronger foundation for grasping important life skills.

Reflecting on the past five years, WIM Anastasia Sorokina, the project leader, emphasizes the significant learning experience for both the chess community and health experts. “It has been an important learning curve for both the chess world and health experts. Through direct work with children who have autism, we gained a better understanding of how chess can be made more accessible. Chess is for all – we are all one family – and FIDE is steadfast in its commitment to providing everyone, regardless of their background or life circumstances, with an opportunity to learn and play chess as it does help make one’s life better,” she said.

Running in sync with FIDE’s Social Commission and supported by the International Olympic Committee, the Infinite Chess project explores how chess can help children with autism develop through the 64-square game. Through specially designed courses and seminars, educators are taught how to present chess to children with autism and help them learn the game.

The program, available online on the Infinite Chess website, as well as through courses and seminars published on YouTube, has been translated into five languages (English, Spanish, French, Arabic, and Russian) and is currently taught to more than 150 children between the ages of four and 17.

You can watch a video on the Infinite Chess here.

Infinite Chess Project launched in Tanzania

KN — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 13:30:47 +0000

The official launch of the chess project for people with autism spectrum disorder organized by the Iyanna Foundation took place on January 24 in Kaloleni Primary School, Arusha, Tanzania.

First, an introductory meeting was arranged with the parents/guardians of kids with autism from Kaloleni Primary School who have been selected to participate in the Infinite Chess program. Three Iyanna Foundation chess coaches, three chess tutors and the head teacher of the school were also present.

The agenda of the meeting was to raise parents’ awareness of the Infinite Chess program and its impact on children’s mental health and skills needed for adaptation in society. Maria Tamkovich, project coordinator, and Prisca Lema Iyanna, CEO of Iyanna Foundation, introduced the project and shared the experience of other countries that had joined the initiative earlier.

The follow-up questions from parents mainly concerned the influence of chess on children with autism spectrum disorder and their daily lives. Project officials explained the benefits of chess, and most parents agreed that it is something that they would love their kids to be a part of. Moreover, some parents expressed a desire to learn chess alongside their children to support them at home.

The program is tentatively planned to start this week. The chess classes will be held once a week but with the flexibility of adding one additional day depending on the children’s reception.

About Infinite Chess project:

Spearheaded by Anastasia Sorokina, Chair of the FIDE Commission for Women’s Chess, a pilot Infinite Chess project was launched in January 2021 in six countries: Spain, Turkey, France, Gibraltar, South Africa and Norway. Currently, it is already running in 12 countries – Albania, Cyprus, France, Gibraltar, Latvia, Malaysia, Mongolia, Morocco, South Africa, Spain, Taiwan, and Turkey – and involves 130 children with ASD.

The “Infinite Chess” training program for teaching chess to children with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) is available in several languages — English, French, Spanish, and Russian. Recently, it has been translated into Arabic language and published on the project’s website.

To learn more about the initiative, visit its official webpage: infinitechess.fide.com

UAE hosts Asian Educational Seminar “Chess for children with ASD. Learn & Teach”

KN — Thu, 21 Dec 2023 16:15:51 +0000

The International Chess Federation (FIDE), together with the Asian Chess Federation and Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, with the support of the International Olympic Committee, FIDE Planning and Development Commission, and FIDE Social Commission, hold the first offline Asian Educational Seminar “Chess for children with ASD. Learn & Teach”. The event took place at the Al Ain Convention Center, UAE, from December 18 to 19.

Twenty-one chess teachers and coaches from 14 countries (Bangladesh, Vietnam, Azerbaijan, UAE, Sri Lanka, Lebanon, Philippines, Pakistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and others) explored the ways of teaching chess to children with autism spectrum disorder, studied a unique training program developed in 2021 and got practical advice on how to work with kids with ASD.

The following prominent figures participated in the seminar:

Hisham al Taher, General Secretary of the Asian Chess Federation
Abdulla Ismail Alkamali, Executive Director of Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination (UAE)
Dana Reizniece-Ozola, Project Supervisor, Deputy Chair of the FIDE Management Board
Anastasia Sorokina, Leader of the project, FIDE WOM Chair, Chairperson of Asian Chess Federation Social Commission

Speakers at the seminar:

Ala Mishchanka – Special needs educational assistant, more than 17 years of experience (Canada);
Natalia Popova – WIM, FIDE Trainer, leader of the two-year-long project teaching chess to children with autistic spectrum disorder (FIDE);
Melodi Dincel – MD, child and adolescent psychiatry specialist at Istanbul University, Infinite Chess project partner (Turkey)
Viesturs Kapce – FIDE Instructor, chess coach, Infinite Chess project partner (Latvia)

All participants were honoured to visit the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination in Al Ain and exchange teaching experiences with local experts. We thank Abdulla Ismail Alkamali for the hospitality and inspiring tour he provided personally for all the participants and the project team.

On December 19, FIDE, the Asian Chess Federation and Zayed Higher organization signed a Tripartite Memorandum of Understanding, a significant step forward to the further cooperation and expansion of partnership within the Infinite Chess project.

“Infinite Chess is our project where we use the game to improve socio-emotional wellbeing of children with autistic spectrum disorder. With this agreement we aim to provide new opportunities, empower and change lives of children with special abilities here in the region,” said Dana Reizniece-Ozola, Project Supervisor and Deputy Chair of the FIDE Management Board.

Presentations (pdf):

Chess for Children with Autism and Spectrum Disorder by Natalia Popova – Part 1

Chess for Children with Autism and Spectrum Disorder by Natalia Popova – Part 2

Classroom Organization by Natalia Popova

FIDE Infinite Chess Project by Ala Mischanka – Day 1

FIDE Infinite Chess Project by Ala Mischanka – Day 2

Infinite Chess – Turkey by Melodi Dincel

Infinite Chess – Latvia Experience by Viesturs Kapce