Aussie kids as young as 5 taking up chess in school

Melbourne, Sept 23 (ANI): A survey has revealed that chess is fast becoming popular in Australian schools with kids as young as five taking up the game.

Research shows that more than 60 percent of schools across Australia are now running a formal chess program or are planning to implement one.

A national survey of 500 schools found more than 75 percent believe regular chess play can help students score higher marks in national literacy and numeracy tests.

And teachers say that the game has helped improve student concentration, strategic thinking and performance in class.

At Bronte Public School, the teacher in charge of chess Helen Foster said up to 60 children from kindergarten to Year 6 were involved in the chess program.

"The numbers are increasing and it is of enormous benefit to their work," the Daily Telegraph quoted Foster as saying. (ANI)