What is Story Time Chess?

Story Time Chess is an education company that teaches children as young as 3 through storytelling, turning each chess piece into a character with a memorable backstory.

What makes your program different from traditional chess lessons?

Our classes are taught by trained Story Time Chess coaches who specialize in making chess fun and accessible for children of all skill levels.

What ages do you teach?

We specialize in ages 3-8, but we've taught hundreds of curious toddlers ready to explore chesseven if they've never seen a board before.

What is your method for teaching chess?

Each piece becomes a character with a purpose, making learning fun, memorable, and emotionally engaging. We introduce one piece at a time, gradually increasing complexity. Beyond chess, our lessons build focus, perseverance, sportsmanship, and critical thinking.

What does a typical class look like?

Each session begins with a story or theme that introduces a new chess concept, followed by practice games and skill-building activities. Classes are structured, interactive, and always kid-friendly.

How does the chess curriculum progress?

Students begin with the foundational “story” lessons (each piece has a character!) and gradually learn how pieces move, how to capture, and how to develop strategies. Progress builds week by week.

Will my child actually learn chess, or is it just for fun?

Both! Our curriculum is designed so children genuinely learn chess — how to play, how to think ahead, and how to compete — while having a great time doing it. Many students go on to play in tournaments.

Where do home lessons take place?

Anywhere you’re comfortable—living room, dining room, kitchen table. We ask that lessons happen outside of bedrooms so kids can stay focused in a consistent learning space.

How long is each lesson?

Lessons are 45–60 minutes, depending on your child’s age, attention span, and pace. Your tutor will tailor each session to their needs and aim to end on a high note so learning always feels rewarding.

Do you offer trial lessons?

Yes! We offer $15 trials so your child can try it out.

Can siblings or friends join the same class at home?

Yes! We can create a private group class for your family or friends.

Can parents watch the lesson?

Yes, you're welcome to watch—but we’ve found that kids often learn best when they feel free to explore and make mistakes on their own. We encourage a little independence so your child can shine!

Can I set up recurring lessons?

Yes, most families book weekly recurring sessions.

When do I pay for lessons?

We charge your card on file after your tutor marks attendance—usually the same day. If you’ve purchased credits, we’ll deduct from your balance instead. You’ll need a card on file, even for trials.

How do online lessons work?

Lessons are held via Chessable, an interactive platform with video and a live instructor. Your child learns through stories, games, and digital chessboards—just like in person.

What do I need for online lessons?

Just a device with the internet—no chessboard needed! Although laptop or tablet works best, we recommend a larger screen so your child can easily follow along.

How long are online lessons?

Lessons are 45–60 minutes, depending on your child’s age, attention span, and pace. Your tutor will tailor each session to their needs and aim to end on a high note so learning always feels rewarding.

Can siblings or friends join the same class online?

Yes! We can create a private online group just for you.

Do online students get the same curriculum?

Yes! Same stories, same games, same fun—just online.

Can parents watch the lesson?

Yes, you're welcome to watch—but we’ve found that kids often learn best when they feel free to explore and make mistakes on their own. We encourage a little independence so your child can shine!

Can I set up recurring online lessons?

Absolutely. Most families meet with their tutor weekly.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

Life happens! Just let us know 24 hours in advance to cancel or reschedule, and you won’t be charged. This helps us honor your tutor’s time and keeps things running smoothly for everyone.

Where is your club?

Park Slope
‍Address: 254 7th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215
(332) 230-4500
parkslopeclub@storytimechess.com

What classes do you offer at your club?

Intro to Chess: For brand-new players
‍Chess: For kids who can play full games
‍Chess+: Advanced, invite-only class for kids ready for deeper strategy and tournament prep
‍Story Time Adventures: Our original roleplaying game blending storytelling and early learning

What is Story Time Adventures (formally known as Birchguard Quest)?

It’s our educational tabletop RPG where students work together to solve challenges, explore imaginary worlds, and build foundational learning skills.

Do you offer a trial class?

Yes! Trials are $15 and can be scheduled in any open class that fits your child’s level and schedule. We recommend choosing a class that matches your child’s experience to get the best feel for the program. 

How do I sign up for classes?

We encourage everyone to take a trial first before signing up for classes! Once you have an idea of who we are and what class is right for you, you must purchase a Class Pack to reserve your spot in a class. A Class Pack is 10 classes worth of credits.

What are credits and how do they work?

Credits are pre-purchased funds used for any class or offering. As a part of your registration, you purchased credits. After the commencement of every class, we deduct credits from your account for the cost of the class.

What if I run out of credits?

We’ll email you when you're low, and you can top up anytime via your TutorCruncher account. If you’re out of credits, you’ll be charged the drop-in rate.

How do I log in to my TutorCruncher account?

https://secure.tutorcruncher.com/ - Reset your password if needed.

What if I miss a class?

If you need to miss a class, just let us know at least 48 hours ahead of time! That way, your credits stay safe and our tutors can plan ahead. Without notice, the cost of the class is automatically deducted from your credits. (This is waived for illness.)

What’s your weather policy?

We follow DOE closures and government advisories for inclement weather.

Do you offer camps?

Yes! We run full and half-day camps during holidays, breaks and over the summer.
‍
https://www.storytimechess.com/clubs-chess-lessons/nyc/holiday-camps

Do you offer birthday parties?

While we do not have a birthday or event package, we have run many in the past and would love to discuss being a part of any upcoming birthdays or events! Email us at support@storytimechess.com

How can I register my child for school-based programs?

Most school programs are registered through your school or PTA. If we’re not there yet, email partnerships@storytimechess.com to bring us in!

Do you partner with schools?

Yes! We partner with schools, libraries, and learning centers to bring engaging, curriculum-aligned enrichment programs.

What programs do you offer in schools?

We teach chess, backgammon, and Story Time Adventures adapted for classroom settings.

Is there a commitment for school sessions?

If for any reason you do not wish to continue after the first lesson we will refund you in full. So the first lesson is very much like a trial lesson in this regard. Please note that after the second lesson we consider this a commitment and the full semester is non-refundable.

Can you donate to school auctions or events?

We love supporting schools! Email support@storytimechess.com for donation requests.

Who do I contact about school partnerships?

Email partnerships@storytimechess.com or call 212-796-2737 (Mon–Fri, 9am – 5pm EST).