Step 1
In the first step all the rules of the chess game are introduced. Furthermore, much attention is paid to developing the basic skills necessary to play chess.
Comparing with other books for beginners, the Steps method introduces a unique sequence of the teaching material. Learning how to mate is postponed as long as possible. This sounds astonishing and even incredible, but practice has shown that this approach works perfectly. Children learn to play chess very well, especially if they get enough time in between to play and practise.
The 'first Step' consists of a manual for the trainer and workbooks for the students: Step 1, Step 1 extra, Step 1 plus and Step 1 mix. There are special books available for children from 6 till about 9 years old: the Stepping stones.
Books in this step
Manual for chess trainers Step 1
14ᵉ druk 2025 · 224 pages
Ready-made lessons, hints on how to use the workbooks, and practical help. An indispensable companion for any teacher.
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Workbook Step 1
22ᵉ druk 2025 · 56 pages
The base workbook with reminders and around 486 exercises. Themes match those in the manual.
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Workbook Step 1 extra
9ᵉ druk 2025 · 56 pages
Extra exercises and repetition of all Step 1 themes, finishing with twelve pages of mixed exercises.
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Workbook Step 1 plus
7ᵉ druk 2025 · 56 pages
Deepening of Step 1 with new topics such as X-ray protection, the passed pawn and defending against mate.
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Workbook Step 1 mix
4ᵉ druk 2023 · 64 pages
723 mixed exercises from Step 1 and Step 1 plus — always play the best move, just as in a real game.
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Stepping stones 1
10ᵉ druk 2023 · 56 pages
Specifically for young children (6–8 years): larger diagrams, simpler exercises, almost no text. Covers up to lesson 6 of the manual.
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Stepping stones 2
8ᵉ druk 2023 · 56 pages
The second workbook for young children (6–8 years), starting with mate and offering the follow-up material.
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